2015/16 Kirra Tours New Zealand Coach Tour Holidays Brochure (UK)

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2015 - 201648th Edition£GBPwww.kirratours.co.uk

Comprehensive Itineraries

Iconic Sightseeing

Guaranteed Departures

EarlybirdDiscount

Coach Tour Holidays

NewALL DEPARTURESGUARANTEED

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New

W E L C O M E T O T H E W O R L D I N M I N I AT U R E . . .

Creating memorable holidays since 1968

New Zealand to me has always been one of the most special places on earth. It is my sincere pleasure to be given the opportunity to share this unique destination by presenting to you our latest New Zealand Coach Tour Holiday brochure for the 2015/16 season.

At Kirra, we have always dealt in much more than just simple, plain touring. We provide once in a lifetime experiences to be remembered, moments to be treasured and with 47 years in the business, unparalleled travel experience and enthusiasm to ensure you get the most out of your dream holiday.

Committed to not only providing a fresh and updated Coach Touring Program, but also producing brochures that make your browsing experience both informative and stimulating, I’m excited to present a new look and feel this season that includes several exciting features, all designed to help make planning your holiday easy and enjoyable. Importantly, we haven’t thrown the baby out with the bath water, and have maintained all the elements our passengers have grown to love and appreciate about Kirra. And of course, our itineraries continue to cover a range of fascinating regions and include exclusive and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

So come discover a trip of a lifetime in our little corner of the world on a Kirra Tours Coach Holiday.

Happy Travels,

Tracey Green General Manager Kirra Holidays

Kirra Tours | Welcome

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Creating memorable holidays since 1968

What’s Inside?Why choose a Kirra Tour? 4

About Kirra Tours 6

What you need to know 8

Which tour style is for you? 10

Included Sightseeing Experiences 12

Featured Holiday Experiences 14

Unique Accommodation Experiences 15

Touring Maps 16

Ultimate Tours 18

23 Day Ultimate All New Zealand 20

20 Day Ultimate New Zealand 22

15 Day Ultimate South Island 24

13 Day Ultimate Southern Highlights 26

10 Day Ultimate North Island 28

Hollyford Track Optional Add On 29

Snapshots Tours 30

7 Day Cultural Snapshots 32

7 Day Scenic Snapshots 33

6 Day TranzAlpine Snapshots 34

5 Day Geothermal Snapshots 35

Classics Tours 36

18 Day Classic New Zealand Panorama 38

17 Day Classic New Zealand Explorer 40

14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer 42

12 Day Classic Southern Discovery 44

10 Day Classic Southern Panorama 46

9 Day Classic TranzAlpine 47

8 Day Classic Northern Discovery 48

5 Day Classic Bay of Islands 49

Highlights Tours 50

17 Day Highlights of New Zealand 52

11 Day Southern Highlights 54

8 Day Northern Highlights 55

On Tour Optional Activities 56

Cruise Connections 58

Tailor-made Tours 60

Terms & Conditions 63

© 2014 Kirra Tours Limited Partnership. No part of this brochure may be reproduced without Kirra’s prior written permission.

Travel Agents: to request copies of any Kirra Holidays brochures, please visit www.kirratours.co.uk or phone 0800 856 5494.

To help you navigate your way through our brochure, we have introduced a series of icons to clearly indicate inclusions, tour features and tips.

TOUR SIZE: Maximum group size for this coach tour

STAFF TIPS: Our Kirra Team share their travel knowledge

h ACCOMMODATION: Level of accommodation and duration of stay

FAVOURITE PLACES: Our Kirra Team share their favourite destinations

\ DINING: Number of meals included in your tour ”“

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS: Our past passengers share their comments

b TRAVEL: Modes of transport your tour includes, for example coach & ferry

EARLYBIRD: A reward for booking your tour 4 or more months in advance

FEATURED EXPERIENCES: Cultural & unique activities included in your tour

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: Our tours are guaranteed to depart

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING: Sightseeing included in your tour r TRAIN JOURNEYS: Iconic train

journeys you will experience on tour

7 HIGHLIGHTS: Places you will visit on your tour, perfect for photo stops

PLANE TRAVEL: Indicates suggested flight arrival/departure points for a tour

M OPTIONAL ADD ON: Activities you might like to add on to your trip

CRUISE CONNECTIONS: Tours that connect with cruise arrivals/departures

Kirra passengers group photo at Rotorua Museum

Kirra Tours | Welcome

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The Kirra Tours family has been creating memorable New Zealand experiences since 1968 We pride ourselves on exceptional personalised customer service and unequalled experiences. With 47 years of service to our name, you can trust Kirra to keep your best interests at heart when planning your holiday and during the tour, with the added security of a dedicated team in New Zealand to ensure each element of your journey runs smoothly.

The Kirra Promise

Guaranteed DeparturesPlanning a holiday is a special event, and there is nothing worse than having your plans turned upside down when something is cancelled.

At Kirra, we promise you that all the departures listed in our 2015/16 brochure are scheduled to depart. So you can have confidence in booking flights and making arrangements around your tour departure/arrival dates.

With one of the largest portfolio of touring options in New Zealand, you are bound to find a guaranteed departure to fit your itinerary.

The most important person is YOULet us take care of you every step of the way. When travelling on any of Kirra’s Coach Tours, we take care of everything so you can enjoy a relaxed and worry free holiday and start enjoying yourself the moment you arrive. Kirra offers a complete package which includes all of your New Zealand travel arrangements, including transfers, meals, comprehensive sightseeing and speciality activities.

Great value for moneyWhen choosing a Kirra Coach Tour you can be assured that you are getting great value for money. Our long standing relationships with operators and our volume of travellers to New Zealand enables us to get the best deals on the must do attractions. We pass these savings onto you so you can do more and see more whilst on one of our tours.

Don’t miss a thingWe have a large selection of tours tailored to budgets, durations and destinations, and all of our tours ensure you see all the iconic sights and attractions throughout New Zealand. You won’t get stuck in queues or miss out on any of the attractions, as everything is pre-booked for you. On arrival you simply jump the queue with your Coach Captain and enjoy the experience.

Experience New Zealand amongst friendsA Kirra Coach Tour is a great way to travel and meet new people from all over the world. Share your experience with others over a glass of wine at the end of each day and form friendships that last long after your tour is finished.

Kirra is 100% New Zealand ownedKirra Tours is the only New Zealand owned Coach Touring operator showcasing New Zealand to Australians. Our passion for New Zealand is displayed through the creative, unique and memorable itineraries we have been developing for 47 years. Our drive to provide you with something truly unique comes from our heart as we want every traveller to leave New Zealand feeling they have truly experienced something special.

Confidence in bookingWhen you book a Kirra Tours Holiday you can have confidence that your money is safe. As members of ABTA, Kirra Tours protects any money paid to us in the event of the financial collapse of operators which form part of your holiday.

Kirra Tours | Why Choose a Kirra Tour?

WhyChoose a

Kirra Tour?

Pier St Omers Wharf, QueenstownMilford Sound

“The professionalism, service and attention to detail from Kirra have never been equalled during all of our overseas trips. Thank you for an angst free booking and holiday.”

Barbara, Australia

Happy Kirra Travellers”“

Earlybird Offer*

Special discount just for you...Book and pay for your coach tour in full by 30th June 2015, and receive an amazing 7.5% discount off the total price of your Kirra Coach Tour Holiday. Your dream holiday to New Zealand is now more affordable than ever!

*See page 63 for terms & conditions.

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Relax. Let us do the driving All Kirra Coach Tours are fully hosted by a friendly & experienced Coach Captain, who will not only provide insightful commentary to give you a better understanding of New Zealand, but will also make certain that you are taken care of at all times whilst on the road, ensuring that your time with us is completely stress free and memorable.

Offering you freedom & flexibilityMost of our Kirra Coach Tours include free time for you to explore more of each location. Depending on the level of freedom you are after, we can offer you a choice of tours with a large number of inclusions, to tours with limited inclusions which give you more free time. We recommend that you speak to your Coach Captain regarding joining one of our fantastic optional tours and activities, or alternatively, you can choose to explore on your own, sleep in, shop or have a drink at the pub with the locals.

Premium Coach TravelAt Kirra, we want you to get the best touring experience. Therefore each of our coaches offer large panoramic windows for easy viewing, dual entry for easy access, onboard restroom and daily seat rotation, giving you the chance to mix with your fellow travellers. Safety is also a huge priority for us and this is why we can assure you that all of our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards. Our personalised fleet of Kirra Coaches will have you travelling in Enviro 4 & 5 star vehicles all fitted with individual seat belts.

*Note: During peak periods and tour size fluctuation, the livery and size of the coaches may vary.

Our Knowledgeable Coach CaptainsAll of our Coach Captains are handpicked to represent Kirra, based on their road safety record and passion for New Zealand. Every year our drivers go through an extensive training program to ensure their knowledge of the latest attractions is up to date. Our drivers look forward to sharing a piece of their New Zealand with you.

CRUISE CONNECTIONS

CRUISE CONNECTIONS

Our Exclusive Gift To You...

Cruise Connections

Train Journeys

Kirra Tours | Why Choose a Kirra Tour?

r

r

Cape Reinga, NorthlandTraditional Hongi GreetingYachts, Auckland Harbour

Our exclusive gift to you is our Kirra Tours travel kit which includes a day pack, ticket wallet, souvenir luggage tags and personalised name badges. These kits will be provided to you on arrival at either the airport or your first nights accommodation whilst on tour. You will also receive your travel documentation in both electronic form so that you have something tangible before you depart, you may also like to print off a copy of your itinerary for family or friends.

Your travel documentation will come with information on interesting things you can see and do whilst in New Zealand, travel tops and a list of hotels that you will be staying at just in case you have friends and family nearby wanting to visit.

We want to make your holiday as memorable and enjoyable as possible!

If you are looking for the ultimate experience in New Zealand, why not match a cruise with one of our Coach Tours? Enrich your experience by visiting places limited by a cruise holiday such as the West Coast, Queenstown and Rotorua. With over 200 departures to choose from, you are bound to find your perfect New Zealand holiday. We have identified tours that link with many popular cruise liners visiting New Zealand this summer. Choose to arrive early and experience a Kirra Coach Tour before your cruise, or cruise to New Zealand and finish with a Kirra Coach Tour. Either way, the choice is made even easier with our cruise connections icon. For full details of all our Cruise Connections, head to page 58.

New Zealand is home to some of the worlds most spectacular train journeys. We offer two iconic journeys on a selection of our Coach Tours. The famous TranzAlpine which travels between Christchurch and Greymouth will have you traverse the mighty Southern Alps, where spectacular views of the chiselled alpine landscape will take your breath away. The Coastal Pacific travels along the rugged coastline from Christchurch to Kaikoura, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Kaikoura Ranges. Both of these iconic train journeys can be found in many of our touring options either as an inclusion or as a optional add on to your tour. We highly recommend that you don’t miss this opportunity.

Milford Sound Cruising

Coastal Pacific Train

6 Kirra Tours | About Kirra Tours

AboutKirra Tours

The New ZealandSpecialists

There are very good reasons why Kirra Tours is known in the industry as ‘The New Zealand Specialists’ At Kirra, our longevity in providing holiday makers with exceptional New Zealand experiences has helped us become what we are today. With 47 years of specialising in New Zealand tourism, we continue to do what we love doing - showcasing our homeland to you. As The New Zealand Specialists, we believe there is no better way than a Kirra Coach Tour to experience all that this amazing country has to offer.

The beginningsJack Manning, a Maths & Woodwork teacher at Daws Road High School in Adelaide, organised some small-scale South Australian & Victorian bus tours in the 1960s, followed by a tour of New Zealand for his fellow teachers in August 1968. The tour was so successful that Jack established a commercial tour operation based in Pasadena, a suburb in the south of Adelaide. Pasadena Travel organised & operated a range of coach tours in New Zealand, with departures scheduled year round.

Popularity of Coach ToursThe coach tours became more popular, with the number of scheduled departures increasing each year. While coach touring remained the cornerstone of the business, rental cars, motorhomes and accommodation passes were added to the product range. In 1975, the Pasadena Travel name was changed to Kirra Tours. Jack continued to travel with some of the tours in New Zealand, and was seen as one of the most successful businessmen in travel.

Company growsIn the early 1980s, Kirra Tours moved to its current larger premises in Adelaide city, and had staff based in every capital city in Australia. Kirra also opened an office in Christchurch, which was run by Jack Manning’s daughter Judy. In 1986, Jack Manning retired from Kirra Tours at the age of 58, and sold the company to its present owners in late 1989.

Added ExperiencesThroughout the 90s and into the next century, Kirra Tours continued to add products to its range. Over the years, new products such as golf holidays, Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow packages, ski & snowboarding holidays, and guided walks & adventures were added. An office in London was also opened in the early 90s.

Strong relationships and a good reputationToday, Kirra Tours offers an enviable range of touring and travel options for domestic and international visitors to New Zealand. We have strong relationships and a good reputation within the New Zealand tourism & travel industry, and work closely with Tourism New Zealand, regional tourism offices & local suppliers. Our ambition is to enable the ultimate in visitor experience and satisfaction through a choice of innovative and experiential holidays.

2014

2000

1990

1980

1970

1968

The Kirra Team

Kirra Coach Captains

Our team of specialists will ensure that planning your coach holiday is made easy. As Kirra Tours only focuses on New Zealand as a destination, it is no wonder at all that we are considered to be ‘The New Zealand Specialists’. Our knowledgeable Kirra team have all experienced New Zealand first hand and are passionate about helping you make the most out of your holiday!

A Coach Captain can make the difference between a tour being great and fantastic. At Kirra, we take pride in our Coach Captains and the service that they deliver to you when visiting New Zealand.

All our Coach Captains originate from different parts of New Zealand and are passionate about their country. On tour they will share their experiences, knowledge and stories with you, providing you with a lasting impression and a memorable New Zealand experience.

DunedinWaka Canoe

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Let us show you our backyardNew Zealand is a little different from most other holiday destinations, simply because it really is so compact and yet extraordinarily, despite its small size, is home to an enormously diverse range of utterly unique scenery and landscape. This means that in one day of Coach Touring, the view from your window can change from a windswept wild coastline to a patchwork of flat, endless farming plains, right on through to utter immersion within a colossal snowy mountain range. This unique aspect of New Zealand travel is a truly astounding experience and one that really must be seen to be believed.

From soaring snowcapped peaks to thick rainforest and sandy pristine beaches, this landscape has it all, and don’t forget to add to that a fascinating and unique geothermal region, a rich and lasting indigenous culture to inspire and move you, and of course the friendly local hospitality and relaxed attitude which has today become iconic to the Kiwi way of life.

All of New Zealand’s obvious charms have made it a hub for tourism since the late 1800s, when international visitors first discovered the unique attractions of this faraway land. And since then, it is no wonder the whole world has caught onto this little secret... New Zealand is truly a one of a kind destination, an untouched landscape that boasts natural beauty to take your breath away.

Kirra Tours | About Kirra Tours

Sunrise over Hahei BeachTe Puia Geyser, RotoruaChurch of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo

Poppy & Lyn from Tailor-made Tours Mou Wahu Island, Lake Wanaka

Sharon & Linda from Reservations Ziptrek, Queenstown

Kirra’s General Manager Tracey GreenEdmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Mt Cook

Kirra staff Shotover Jet, Queenstown

Mel from Accounts Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata

Tracey, Lyn & Renee from CoachAir Safaris, Lake Tekapo

Pam from ReservationsSnow Angel in Tekapo

“I really enjoyed Hobbiton. If you love the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies or books, then you will love this place. To see ‘The Shire’ set up like it is in the movies is really amazing! It’s like being in another world.”

Melissa

“Before you depart for New Zealand on your Kirra Coach Tour, take photocopies of all your important travel documents and carry the spare copies in a separate bag or travel wallet. It is also a good idea to leave copies with a family member or friend.”

Jess

Kirra Staff TipKirra’s Favourite Places

Some of the Kirra team enjoying the country they love!

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Why Kirra Tours? Kirra Tours has over 47 years experience and we are well recognised as the premium touring company in New Zealand. We dedicate time to researching the best options to ensure our travellers get a mix of cultural, historical and natural scenery on all of our tours.

Where are the International Airports?Most international flights fly into Auckland. From here, you can connect onto domestic flights to most New Zealand airports including Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Queenstown, Rotorua, Taupo & Wellington. There are also direct international flights into Christchurch, Rotorua, Queenstown & Wellington.

What is the weather like?New Zealand does not have a large temperature range compared to other countries. Most of the country receives moderate rainfall and abundant sunshine. The average temperature decreases as you travel south with January and February being the warmest months, and July the coldest. The average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC (70-90°F) in summer and between 10-15ºC (50-60°F) in winter.

Do you cater for solo travellers?When you purchase the single supplement in addition to the cost of your tour, you will have a guaranteed single room. Alternatively, if you prefer not to pay the additional fee, we will match you with another single traveller of the same gender on a twin share basis. If there are no other travellers to be matched with you, you will have a room to yourself at no extra cost.

Is Kirra able to cater for any special requirements?Yes, we are able to cater for most medical & dietary requirements on our tours. Simply ensure your Travel Agent provides you with a booking form where you can outline your request. Alternatively, ask your Travel Agent to give us a call to check if we can cater to your needs. No matter how big or small we will check with our service providers to see if your requirement can be met from start to finish of your tour. (Please refer to full terms & conditions on page 63)

Can I bring my children on a tour?When travelling with children 5-14 years of age, we can take care of the whole family. We accept reservations for up to two adults and two children to share one room, however room size in some hotels is restricted and the third and fourth beds are likely to be rollaway style. Please contact us for further information.

Do I need a passport or visa to enter New Zealand?All visitors to New Zealand must carry a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the country. When visiting New Zealand you do not need a visa or permit if you are:

• A British Citizen and/or British passport holder who can produce evidence of the right to reside permanently in the UK (you can stay up to six months);

• A citizen of a country which has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand (you can stay up to six months).

If you come from Visa-waiver countries, you don’t need a visa to enter New Zealand, but are still required to provide:

• Travel tickets or evidence of onward travel arrangements;

• Evidence that you can support yourself in New Zealand (approximately NZ$1000 per month per person).

For more information please visit www.immigration.govt.nz

When should I visit New Zealand? New Zealand is beautiful year round and has so much to offer in all seasons. With great snow and skiing in winter, abundant sunshine in summer, beautiful colours and breathtaking scenery in autumn and spring, New Zealand offers it all. The best time of year to see New Zealand will depend on what you want to see and do, with the most popular time to travel being between January and March. So make sure you book in advance to secure your spot.

Can I create my own personal tour?Yes. Kirra Tours offers options to help you piece together your perfect group holiday. Discover more in the Tailor-made Tours section on page 60.

Can three people share a room on a coach tour?If you and two friends or family members are travelling on a Kirra Coach Tour you could all save 5% of the twin-share cost by sharing a triple room. Triple share rooms are only available on Classics & Highlights Tours and these rooms will have either a double & a single bed, or 3 single beds. Please note that in some locations, the third person may need to use a rollaway bed.

WhatYou NeedTo Know

Frequently Asked Questions There are always many questions to ask when planning a holiday. The following are a selection of some of the most frequently asked questions we hear at Kirra. Hopefully the answers will both help and excite you about your upcoming holiday. Please do not hesitate to ask your Kirra consultant any questions, as we’re here to make your holiday as enjoyable as possible. For more information, please visit our FAQ’s page on our website www.kirratours.co.uk.

Kirra Tours | Frequently Asked Questions

Bay of Islands Cruise

Auckland

Coffee Break, Wanaka

Welcome aboard

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Is smoking permitted on a Kirra coach tour?All our Coach Tours are smoke free and are restricted to smoking during the frequent sightseeing, photographic and comfort stops. We request non-smoking hotel rooms for the comfort of our entire tour group. Travellers who prefer accommodation without such limitations are asked to make their preference known when booking and again at the beginning of their tour. It is not possible to guarantee either option however we will make all reasonable efforts to satisfy individual needs.

Can I choose my seat on the coach?Your Coach Captain will maintain a daily seat rotation plan that not only provides an equal touring experience for all our passengers, but also allows you the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers.

How to bookOnce you have decided which tour is right for you please contact your local Travel Agent or visit our website. To secure your place on one of our tours you will be required to pay a per person deposit. Make sure that before finalising your holiday you thoroughly evaluate all options available and make reservations well in advance to be sure of securing your preferred arrangements. For full terms & conditions, please refer to page 63. To contact us, please call 0800 856 5494 or visit our website: www.kirratours.co.uk

Are transfers included if I arrive early?Yes, transfers will still be included from the airport, ferry terminal, train station, bus station or cruise port to your pre and/or post tour accommodation. The type of transfer provided will change depending on where you are coming from and where you are going to. If you are staying at accommodation located outside of the CBD, are travelling from hotel to hotel or are coming from a private residence, you will need to make your own way to the hotel on the first night included on your tour.

Can I use my mobile phone in New Zealand? Most service providers offer an international roaming facility that will allow you to receive and make phone calls using your existing phone number while travelling in New Zealand. Higher call rates usually apply when using this facility though, so we recommend checking with your service provider before activating this facility.

Alternatively, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card when you arrive in New Zealand. These are available through the following mobile service operators: 2 Degrees, Telecom New Zealand and Vodafone.

FACEBOOKOur Facebook page is a great way to stay in touch with what’s happening at Kirra Tours as well as sharing the experiences of fellow passengers.

facebook.com/kirratoursnewzealand

TWITTERTwitter is arguably the best way to keep up-to-date with what’s going on in the world 140 characters at a time. It’s a great way to post short messages and photos of those unique tour moments. Follow us @kirratours, and be sure to hashtag your posts with #kirratours.

twitter.com/kirratours

INSTAGRAMThis app is perfect for sharing photos whilst on holidays. You can even edit your photos and make them look extra amazing by using the included filters. Look for us @kirratours, and be sure to hashtag your posts with #kirratours.

Download your smart phone app from instagram.com

YOUTUBEKirra has a YouTube channel where you can view the latest clips from New Zealand holiday makers and a selection of optional activities.

youtube.com/kirratoursnewzealand

The internet has revolutionised travel and enhanced the individual experience. Join in the fun and get involved in Kirra’s online community. You can ask direct questions, read and make comments, share photos and experiences and even make suggestions.

Visit www.kirratours.co.uk to get started.Get Social

Kirra Tours | Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a discount if I have travelled with Kirra before?Kirra Tours appreciates the loyalty of passengers who choose our Coach Tours time after time. After travelling with Kirra on just one of our Coach Tours, you automatically become entitled to a 5% discount off your next tour. If you are booking your second or even third Coach Tour with us, be sure to mention this during booking so we can save you money.

Northland Beach

Can I use my debit & credit card in New Zealand? All hotels and most shops accept Visa & Mastercard credit cards, with selected shops also accepting American Express & Diners Club cards. Check with your bank for more information.

Maori CultureKirra Coach, Rydges Queenstown

Abel Tasman Beach

Volcanic Hills Winery

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Choose a Snapshots Tour for a more intimate experience: Perfect for visitors who are short on time, but still prefer a unique, comprehensive and individual experience. Immerse yourself in the unique side of New Zealand on a small group tour and discover hidden treasures.

For the ultimate experience, take an Ultimate Tour: For those who want more than just a Coach Tour and want to explore off the beaten track, an Ultimate Tour is for you. Designed for people who wish to experience New Zealand the way New Zealanders do. Come explore our backyard!

10-23 DaysUltimate

Tours

Short on time, create lasting memories... Snapshots Tours begin on page 32 32See more, do more, explore more... Ultimate Tours begin on

page 20 20

Iconic sightseeing Hidden

treasures

5-7 DaysSnapshots

Tours

WhichTour StyleIs For You?

Kirra Tours | Which Tour Style Is For You?

What’s Important To You? Use this quick overview to compare our tour stylesWhichever tour you choose, you’re guaranteed premium coach touring, knowledgeable Coach Captains, quality accommodation, must see sightseeing and meal inclusions. All of our tours showcase not only the heritage and culture of New Zealand, but the magnificent scenery and iconic landmarks as well. You can easily identify our different types of tours and how they suit your particular requirements by using the following descriptions, quick comparisons and colour coding.

TOUR GROUP SIZE

•Maximum 30 people

hACCOMMODATION

• 4-4.5 star centrally located quality hotels

\DINING

•Breakfasts, dinners & some lunches

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

• Yacht Sailing on Auckland Harbour• Tasman Glacier Experience•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi & Concert

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 4.5 star centrally located luxury hotels

\DINING

•Breakfasts, most dinners & some lunches


•Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour• Footprints Waipoua Evening Encounter•Doubtful Sound Navigator Overnight Cruise

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More freedom to make your own discoveries: Take advantage of less inclusions so you can choose the things you want to explore more. Using our wealth of experience we have developed a series of itineraries to showcase New Zealand’s highlights for those travellers with value in mind.

Take comfort in the Kiwi Classics: All the inclusions at a relaxed, enjoyable pace for those wanting to see New Zealand from top to bottom. Our most popular tour series and recommended by thousands of past travellers. Well balanced itineraries cover all the iconic sights.

All the best spots, no hassles ... Our Classic Tours begin on page 38 38 Travel on your own terms... Highlights Tours begin on

page 52 52

New discoveries Freedom

to explore

5-18 DaysClassic Tours

8-17 DaysHighlights

Tours

What to look for on your itinerary pages to choose the best tour for you.

TOUR SIZE

h

ACCOMMODATION

\DINING

bTRAVEL FEATURED

EXPERIENCESICONIC

SIGHTSEEING

7HIGHLIGHTS

TOUR SIZE: Maximum group size

ACCOMMODATION: Level of accommodation & duration of stay

DINING: Number of meals included in your tour

TRAVEL: Modes of transport your tour includes

FEATURED EXPERIENCES: Cultural and unique activities

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING: Sightseeing included in your tour

HIGHLIGHTS: Places you will visit on your tour & photo stops

Kirra Tours | Which Tour Style Is For You?

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 3.5 star centrally located hotels

\DINING

•Breakfasts & dinners


•Milford Sound Cruise• TranzAlpine Train Journey•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi & Concert

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 3-3.5 star centrally located hotels

\DINING

•Breakfasts only


•Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tour •Milford Sound Cruise•Authentic Maori Village Hangi & Concert

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We believe in value for money When travelling stunning New Zealand by coach, there is no limit to what you will discover. From an idyllic vineyard tasting or a traditionally prepared Maori Hangi, right through to a Bay of Islands cruise or a visit to immense Milford Sound, Kirra has carefully selected the very best sightseeing activities on offer and included them within your tour itinerary. This means that getting the best out of New Zealand couldn’t be easier.

SKY TOWER, AUCKLAND Take a trip up the tallest free standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere at 328 metres. Enjoy the superb views of Auckland City, its two harbours and the volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island.

THE KAURI MUSEUM, NORTHLANDYou will be taken back in time as your guide takes you through the history of the Kauri forests and the early pioneers. Experience the fascinating display of ancient Kauri trees, stunning collection of Kauri gum, steam sawmill and machinery.

WAITANGI TREATY GROUNDS, NORTHLAND Discover New Zealand’s birthplace, where in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between Maori Chiefs and the British Crown. Be amazed by the world’s largest ceremonial war canoe, visit the unique carved Maori Meeting House and soak up the rich culture.

TAMAKI VILLAGE & HANGI, ROTORUANestled in Rotorua forest, you will be welcomed into an authentic Maori Village. Discover Maori art forms, ancient rituals and traditions such as song and dance and finish off by being treated to a 3 course dinner of traditional hangi food.

SKYLINE GONDOLA, ROTORUAExperience the iconic gondola trip to the top of Mt Ngongotaha, where you will be greeted by spectacular views of Rotorua city, lake and surrounds. Then test your skills against other travellers on the famous three wheeled Skyline Luge.

TE PUIA MAORI ARTS & CRAFTS INSTITUTE, ROTORUAVisit the premier Maori cultural centre in New Zealand - a place of gushing waters, steaming vents, boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers. Maori tradition lives on at Te Whakarewarewa, with guided tours, attractions and cultural education.

CAPE BRETT CRUISE, BAY OF ISLANDSExplore the magnificent Bay of Islands as you weave your way past some of the 144 islands located in the region. Your cruise will take you to Cape Brett Lighthouse and Motukokako Island. Make your passage through the ‘Hole in the Rock’ followed by Cathedral Cave.

HOBBITON MOVIE SET, MATAMATA The home of the Hobbits in Matamata is the only remaining Hobbiton movie set in New Zealand. Located on an operating sheep and beef farm, you will get a taste for rural life and enjoy remarkable views of the Kaimai Ranges.

TUI BREWERY, MANGATAINOKANew Zealand’s most iconic brewery is the Tui Brewery, situated in the town of Mangatainoka. Learn about the history of Tui with a visit to their museum. Whilst there, why not sample a locally brewed beer.

SOLJANS WINERY, AUCKLAND Family owned for three generations, this stunning winery is located at the gateway to Kumeu Wine Country, in Auckland’s heritage wine region. Sample the award-winning wines then enjoy exceptional New Zealand cuisine in the highly acclaimed Winery Café.

IncludedSightseeing

Experiences

Kirra Tours | Included Sightseeing Experiences

North Island

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YEALANDS ESTATE, BLENHEIM Located in the Marlborough region in beautiful Awatere Valley, Yealands Estate produces award winning wines in harmony with the environment. Enjoy a guided tour through the winery before sampling some of the fine wines.

LARNACH CASTLE, DUNEDIN Discover New Zealand’s only castle, built in 1871. Learn about its tragic and scandalous history and discover its magnificent architecture. Your guided tour will take you on a journey of the castle, the Baker family and beautiful gardens and grounds.

MILFORD SOUND CRUISE, FIORDLANDAn absolute essential highlight of any New Zealand visit – grand and brooding Milford Sound draws visitors from all over the globe to cruise its length, and wonder. Make sure you have your camera ready for this experience.

LAKELAND ADVENTURES, WANAKACruise across Lake Wanaka to Stevensons Island and take a 15 min guided walk to the lookout. Learn about the history of the lake before returning to the boat. Enjoy refreshments on the beach before cruising back.

INTERISLANDER FERRY, WELLINGTON - PICTONThe 92km, three hour ferry journey between Wellington & Picton is one of New Zealand’s most iconic tourist experiences and one of the most spectacular cruises in the world. Be mesmerised as you cruise through the sounds before crossing Cook Strait.

WALTER PEAK CRUISE, QUEENSTOWNEnjoy a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak on the TSS Earnslaw, with dinner hosted in the Colonel’s Homestead. After your meal, enjoy a brief farm show before returning to Queenstown.

SKYLINE DINNER, QUEENSTOWNTake the Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak high above Queenstown, then enjoy a feast of New Zealand cuisine overlooking Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

GREENSTONE FACTORY, HOKITIKADiscover the Jade Boulder Gallery, showcasing the iconic Pounamu (Jade) stone from the region. This stone was once used to create tools & weapons by the early Maori. It is now used to create beautiful jewellery.

SIR EDMUND HILLARY ALPINE CENTRE, MT COOK A tribute to New Zealand’s best known humanitarian, ambassador and great explorer. The Centre’s 126-seat custom-designed theatre is the world’s only theatre with 2D, 3D and world-class Planetarium, contained within the same space.

THE NOSE, CROMWELLThe Nose Restaurant & Bar offers a state of the art studio and wine tasting room and dining in a vineyard setting. The menu reflects the Central Otago region and offers seasonal produce to match with the wonderful variety of wines available.

Kirra Tours | Included Sightseeing Experiences

“Don’t just think of Auckland as a gateway into New Zealand - there’s so much to see and do! Go shopping on High Street, enjoy the funky cafes in Ponsonby or take a beautiful bushwalk in the Waitakere Ranges. On weekends there are also some very cool French markets to check out in Parnell.”

Pamela

“When you’re travelling with a partner or friend, a great idea is to split the contents of each of your suitcases. Put half your clothes in their bag, and pack half of their clothes in your bag. That way if one of your bags goes missing you will still have enough clothes to get by.”

Nicole

Kirra’s Favourite Places Kirra Staff Tip

Skyline Gondola, Queenstown

South Island

14

Unique

Delivering iconic experiences Imagine walking through a silent forest beneath a starry night sky as a local Maori guide invites you to meet an ancient giant, a Kauri tree larger than you can believe that has been named after a god. You can cruise between the looming cavernous walls of Milford Sound deep within the mysterious Fiordland National Park or visit a Marae to experience a cultural evening that will move and inspire you. Witness silent warriors performing age old traditional protocols as they welcome you into their world and taste a Hangi Meal traditionally baked the Maori way with hot stones beneath the earth. Discover the fun and interesting story behind the creation of Middle Earth on a visit to Hobbiton and maybe even get the opportunity to feel the ice of a glacier beneath your hand when gliding across a terminal surface lake deep in the heart of the Southern Alps.

Experiences like these are what makes New Zealand so special. It is the things you see and feel whilst travelling this unique country that become the moments you will remember vividly, long after you return home.

TRANZALPINE TRAIN JOURNEY, CHRISTCHURCHTake one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Cross fertile farmlands, thrilling vistas and deep gorges. Traverse the mighty Southern Alps, where the spectacular views of the chiselled alpine landscape will take your breath away at every turn.

GUIDED NATURE WALK, COROMANDELExperience the stunning coastal beauty of the Coromandel that most people never see. Walk through beautiful native forest to a sacred mountain, abandoned gold mines, idyllic bays and white sandy beaches.

MILFORD DAY CRUISE, FIORDLANDAn absolutely essential highlight of any New Zealand visit – grand and brooding Milford Sound draws visitors from all over the globe to cruise its length, and wonder. Make sure you have your camera ready for this experience.

TAMAKI VILLAGE & HANGI, ROTORUANestled in Rotorua forest, you will be welcomed into an authentic Maori Village. Discover Maori art forms, ancient rituals and traditions such as song and dance and finish off by being treated to a three course dinner of traditional hangi food.

MOUNT JOHN OBSERVATORY, LAKE TEKAPODeclared a gold-level International Dark Sky Reserve, this region is renowned for the clarity of its sky and freedom from light pollution. See the southern stars and transient phenomena such as aurorae, meteor showers and the zodiacal light.

HOBBITON MOVIE SET, MATAMATAVisit the home of the Hobbits on the only remaining Hobbiton movie set in New Zealand. Located on an operating sheep and beef farm, you will get a taste for rural life and enjoy remarkable views of the Kaimai Ranges.

COASTAL PACIFIC TRAIN, CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURAA train journey along the edge of the world. Immerse yourself in the rugged coastal architecture of New Zealand as you travel breathtakingly close to the Pacific Ocean where the roaring, windblown sea meets enormous bush-clad mountains.

TASMAN GLACIER EXPERIENCE, MT COOKCruise the rapidly growing terminal lake taking in spectacular mountain views and scenery. Icebergs of every shape and size periodically tear away from the glacier allowing you to touch and taste the 300-500 year old glacial crystals.

YACHT SAILING, AUCKLAND HARBOURExperience the thrill of sailing aboard a 15m yacht on one of the world’s most picture perfect harbours. This is by far the best way to enjoy the ‘City of Sails’ and to soak up its great nautical heritage.

FOOTPRINTS WAIPOUA, HOKIANGAOne of the Lonely Planets’ 82 global ‘Experiences of a Lifetime’, Footprints Waipoua conducts guided eco and cultural walks of the largest Kauri forest in New Zealand. Let your guides, the night noises and songs awaken your curious senses.

HolidayExperiences

Featured

Kirra Tours | Featured Holiday Experiences

Maori Warrior, Rotorua

15

h PUKA PARK RESORT, PAUANUIA secluded hideaway located at beautiful Pauanui Beach on The Coromandel Peninsula. The resort prides itself on its intimate ambience, with its onsite restaurant offering superb local cuisine and beautiful views over the Pacific Ocean. You will stay in one of the 42 romantic chalets surrounded by native bush. Take an evening stroll along the white sand beach, go to sleep to the sound of the ocean and wake up to the sounds of the forest coming to life.

SCENIC HOTEL, FRANZ JOSEF Located right on the edge of the Westland World Heritage Park and close to one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions, the 12km long Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef is in the heartland of the West Coast experience. This is an alpine themed hotel situated close to the quaint Franz Josef village and a perfect place to be based to discover this enticing and dramatic region.

CHATEAU TONGARIRO, MT RUAPEHUThe historic Chateau Tongariro was constructed in 1929 and is located in the heart of the Tongariro National Park at the base of stunning Mt Ruapehu. Built in the style of the day, the grandiose entrance halls have roaring fire places with spectacular views through sash windows towards the mountain or over the rolling plains of the North Island volcanic plateau.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE, MILFORD SOUNDThere is no better way to experience the awe-inspiring Milford Sound than by taking an overnight cruise. The Milford Mariner offers an intimate dinner, bed & breakfast cruising experience, exclusive to Kirra. The cruise is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife - and hopefully seals, dolphin and penguins along the way.

Cruise to the open sea with a nature guide and friendly crew before anchoring for the night in sheltered Harrison Cove. Relax in the company of your fellow travellers or indulge in some star-gazing before retiring to your private cabin.

Stay in comfort & luxuryWe want your stay to be a memorable one. Our properties have been chosen for their superior level of service and comfort and are located in some of New Zealand’s most dramatic and awe inspiring landscapes - from volcanic plateaus and white sandy beaches in the north; to ancient glaciers and majestic mountains in the south. The choice is yours.

THE HERMITAGE HOTEL, MT COOKSituated at the base of New Zealand’s tallest and most revered mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook, The Hermitage Hotel has been a haven for travellers since 1884. Mt Cook Village is a busy working village for hikers and mountain climbers. Sir Edmund Hillary trained for his Everest expedition here and you can learn more on this intrepid explorer at the adjoining Alpine Centre. The hotel offers spectacular views of the majestic mountain and the Southern Alps. If you are an early riser, wake up to sunrise over the peak of New Zealand’s tallest mountain, or if you’d rather a sleep in, take in the panoramic views from the grand dining room.

UniqueAccommodation

Experiences

Kirra Tours | Unique Accommodation Experiences

Scenic Hotel, Franz Josef

Hermitage Hotel, Mt CookGrand Mercure Puka Park Resort, Pauanui

Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

Chateau Tongariro

16

Our two-island tours at a glanceOur touring options cover the length and breadth of New Zealand and to help you plan your Kirra Coach Touring holiday we have conveniently provided you with a glimpse of each touring map. This guide will help you determine at a glance the duration and route that is available on each of our tours. You will also notice that our tours are colour coded to the level of touring that will be offered. To find out more about the individual tour, just follow the page reference to see the full itinerary, departure dates and inclusions available to you.

23 Day Ultimate All New Zealand

17 Day Classic New Zealand Explorer

20 Day Ultimate New Zealand 18 Day Classic New Zealand Panorama

MapsYour

Tour Guide

p20 p22 p38

p40

from £4,450*pp from £3,862*pp from £2,995*pp

from £3,015*pp

Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands

Auckland

Auckland

AucklandCoromandel Coromandel

Rotorua

Rotorua

Rotorua

Whangamata Whangamata

Wellington Wellington Wellington

Wellington

Nelson Nelson

Hokitika Hokitika

Franz Josef Franz Josef Franz JosefChristchurch

Christchurch

Christchurch Christchurch

MilfordSound

MilfordSound

Milford Sound

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Dunedin

Dunedin Dunedin

Mt Cook Mt Cook

Mt Cook

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Queenstown

Queenstown Queenstown

Matakohe

Wanaka

Wanaka

Wanaka Wanaka

Tongariro Tongariro

1 1

2 2

2 1

2

1 1

1 11 1

2 2

3 3

1 1

1 1

1 1

2 2

1 1

Picton Picton Blenheim

Blenheim

Lake Taupo

Napier

1

2

1

Masterton1

Kaikoura

Kaikoura

1

2

Omarama

Omarama

2Te Anau

Te Anau

Greymouth

1

Auckland 1

Rotorua2

1 11

1

2

1

1

1

Matamata

Lake Taupo

Franz Josef

Greymouth

2

2

2

1

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2Interislander Ferry

Hollyford Track Add-On Hollyford Track Add-On TranzAlpine Train Add-On

Suggested arrival/departure point

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Overnights2

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Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

Brief stop

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

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Interislander Ferry

Train Journey


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rr

14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer

p42from £2,525*pp

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Christchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Blenheim

Kaikoura

Omarama

Te Anau

1

2

1

1

1

Matamata

Lake Taupo

Franz Josef

Greymouth

1

2

1

21

Interislander Ferry

Train Journey


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

rr

17 Day Highlights of New Zealand

p52from £2,515*pp

Bay of Islands

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Christchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Omarama

Te Anau

1

2

11

1

Lake Taupo

2

2

1

1

Hamilton 1

1

Picton

St Arnaud

Fox Glacier 1

1

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

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Kirra Tours | Touring Maps

M M

M

Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay

17

Bay of Islands

Auckland Coromandel

Rotorua

Whangamata

Wellington

Matakohe

Tongariro

2

2

1

1

2

1

10 Day Ultimate North Island

p28from £1,899*pp

Brief stop


2 Overnights

Bay of Islands

Auckland Coromandel

Rotorua

Waipoua Forest

Hokianga 11

Te PukeMatamata

1

7 Day Cultural Snapshots

p32from £1,643*pp

2

Brief stop


2 Overnights

1Auckland

Rotorua

Tongariro

5 Day Geothermal Snapshots

p35from £1,168*pp

Matamata

Lake Taupo

Waitomo 2

Brief stop


2 Overnights

2

Bay of Islands

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

2

1

8 Day Classic Northern Discovery

p48from £1,365*pp

Lake Taupo

2

Napier

Masterton1

Brief stop


2 Overnights

1

Bay of Islands

Auckland

Matakohe

2

5 Day Classic Bay of Islands

p49from £625*pp

Whangarei

Brief stop


2 Overnights

2Auckland

8 Day Northern Highlights

p55from £1,105*pp

Bay of Islands2

Rotorua

Lake Taupo

Hamilton2

1

Wellington

Brief stop


2 Overnights

1

1

9 Day Classic TranzAlpine

p47from £1,515*pp

Franz JosefChristchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

1

2

1

1

Omarama

Te Anau

Greymouth

1

Brief stop


Train Journey

2

r

Overnights

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2

11 Day Southern Highlights

p54from £1,240*pp

Wellington

Fox GlacierChristchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Omarama

Te Anau

Picton

St Arnaud

1

1

1

12

11

1

Brief stop


Interislander Ferry

2 Overnights

1

Our single-island tours at a glanceAt Kirra we have a vast range of single-island tours which encapsulate the highlights of both islands and are ideal for people either short on time or looking to focus on one island. All our single-island tours offer must-see inclusions, and to help you plan we have conveniently provided a glimpse of each touring map. This guide will help you determine at a glance the duration and route that is available on each of our tours. You will also notice that our tours are colour coded to the level of touring that will be offered. To find out more about the individual tour, just follow the page reference to see the full itinerary, departure dates and inclusions available to you.

Kirra Tours | Touring Maps

12 Day Classic Southern Discovery

p44from £1,999*pp


Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

1

2

1

Wellington1

1

Blenheim

Kaikoura

Omarama

Te Anau

Greymouth

2

1

Brief stop


Interislander Ferry

2

M

Overnights

TranzAlpine Train Add-On

2

M

10 Day Classic Southern Panorama

p46from £1,615*pp

Franz Josef Christchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

1

2

1

1

Omarama

Te Anau

Greymouth

2

Brief stop


2 Overnights

M TranzAlpine Train Add-On

2

M

15 Day Ultimate South Island

p24from £2,765*pp

Nelson

Hokit ika


MilfordSound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

1

11

2

3

1

1

Picton2

Wellington1

Brief stop


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2 Overnights

1

M Hollyford Track Add-On

M

13 Day Ultimate Southern Highlights

p26from £2,555*pp

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Hokit ikaGreymouth


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Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

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1

1

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Train Journey

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7 Day Scenic Snapshots

p33from £1,749*pp

Christchurch

DoubtfulSound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

1

Lake Tekapo1

Lake Manapouri

21

Brief stop


2 Overnights

1

6 Day TranzAlpine Snapshots

p34from £1,168*pp


Queenstown

Greymouth

Lake TekapoHaast Pass

Lindis Pass

1

1

2

Brief stop


Train Journey

2

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Overnights

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18

UltimateTours

Iconic sightseeing

19

Ultimate Toursdesignedare

peoplefor

Our

who wish to

the wayNEW ZEALANDERS do.

EXPERIENCE

Stargazing, Mt Cook National Park

Iconic sightseeing

20

Inclusions & Highlights Your Tour Itinerary

Kirra Tours | 23 Day Ultimate All New Zealand

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 22 nights in quality, centrally located 4-4.5 star hotels

\DINING

• 22 breakfasts (B)• 2 lunches (L) • 20 dinners (D)

bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport• Interislander Ferry Crossing•New Zealand Airport transfers


• Yacht Sailing on Auckland Harbour•Coromandel Guided Nature Walk•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi

& Concert • Tasman Glacier Experience

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch Tours

• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds•Hole in the Rock Cruise• Entry to Kauri Museum• Entry to Sky Tower•Agrodome Sheep Show• Skyline Gondola, Wine Tasting & Lunch• Te Puia Thermal Reserve• Interislander Ferry Crossing•World of Wearable Arts & Classic

Cars Galleries•Cruise to Stevensons Island• Skyline Gondola & Dinner, Queenstown•Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Entry to Olveston House

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Discover the Bay of Islands• Visit the Coromandel Peninsula• Explore Rotorua’s Thermal Reserves• Visit Lake Taupo & Huka Falls• Tongariro National Park• Te Papa Museum• Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery• Franz Josef Glacier•Brief tour of Dunedin• Visit Moeraki Boulders• Lake Tekapo & Church of the

Good Shepherd

Day 1 Arrive AucklandWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel.

h Rydges Auckland, 1 night

Day 2 Auckland/Bay of IslandsDrive north to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Meet your local Maori guide who will provide an insight and history of the Bay of Islands, before a visit to the birthplace of New Zealand, Waitangi. Here, you will take a self guided tour through the Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and war canoe. This afternoon, enjoy a launch cruise to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and ‘Hole in the Rock’. (B, D)

h Tanoa Hotel Paihia, 2 nights

Day 3 Bay of IslandsToday is at your leisure. Take the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Islands. If you want to take advantage of your time here, your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. Why not try a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northern most point and enjoy a drive along Ninety Mile Beach. Enjoy amazing views and see where the Tasman Sea collides with the Pacific Ocean. (B, D)

Day 4 Bay of Islands/AucklandFrom Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth. Travel via Matakohe, home of The Kauri Museum. Learn about the Kauri tree and the history of the region’s early settlement. Continuing on your journey, Auckland city and harbour will shortly come into view. (B, D)


Day 5 Auckland/WhangamataA city tour of Auckland takes in the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere at 328m high, Sky Tower, which gives you superb city views. Then downtown at the Viaduct, you will experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 15m yacht on Auckland Harbour, all before heading south to the Coromandel Peninsula. (B, D)

h Breakers Motel, 2 nights

Day 6 Coromandel PeninsulaToday you will go on an exclusive journey through the Coromandel region with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest, discover the old roads to Puketui, an 1890s gold mining town and visit a goldmine studded with glowworms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, take a dip in the springs at Hotwater Beach. A picnic lunch is included. (B, L, D)

Day 7 Whangamata/RotoruaOn to Rotorua today where you visit the Agrodome for its famous Sheep Show, followed by a scenic Gondola ride up to the Skyline complex for superb views. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to a wine tasting and buffet lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to enjoy. This evening, take part in a Maori Hangi feast and concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka. (B, L, D)

h Sudima Lake Rotorua, 1 night

Day 8 Rotorua/Tongariro National ParkThis morning visit Te Puia, a geothermal reserve with boiling mud and silica terraces. It is also home to the New Zealand Maori Arts & Crafts Institute and the world famous Pohutu Geyser. After your visit, head south to the Wairakei Geothermal Valley, visiting Huka Falls and stopping at Lake Taupo for lunch, New Zealand’s largest lake, before continuing on your journey to reach Tongariro National Park, a stunning natural playground. (B, D)

h Chateau Tongariro Hotel, 1 night

Day 9 Tongariro National Park/WellingtonAs you travel south, the volcanic mountains – Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe dominate the view. Enjoy the scenery as you continue on, heading over the Rimutakas before reaching the capital city of Wellington. A city tour includes Mount Victoria, the Houses of Parliament, Wellington Cathedral and Oriental Bay, with time afterwards to explore the city as well as Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand on Wellington’s waterfront. (B, D)

h Novotel Wellington, 1 night

Day 10 Wellington/NelsonJoin the early morning Interislander Ferry for the scenic cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sounds to Picton. Upon arrival, it’s on to Nelson - a city noted for its arts and crafts. Here you will visit the World of Wearable Arts and Classic Cars galleries. (B, D)

h Grand Mercure Monaco Resort, 2 nights

Day 11 Nelson or Abel Tasman National ParkToday is at your leisure. Why not take time to explore the shops and art galleries which make Nelson famous. Your Coach Captain can assist with arranging optional activities for you, including the Abel Tasman Day Tour, which includes transfers and a picnic lunch. (B, D)

Day 12 Nelson/HokitikaTravel through the rugged Buller Gorge, visiting Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind. Take a moment to explore the Pancake Rocks and blowholes

23 DayUltimate

All New Zealand

21

£4,450*

SUPPLEMENTS

Single Room Supp. Add £1,402

Hollyford Track Walk Add £1,130

Hollyford Track Walk Single Supp. Add £285

For more details about adding the Hollyford Track Walk to this tour, please turn to page 29.

PRE & POST ACCOMMODATION

Auckland £64

Christchurch £53

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Auckland & Quest Christchurch).

Queenstown

at Punakaiki before arriving at the Hokitika, an historic little town featuring some lovely old buildings. (B,D)

h Beachfront Hotel, 1 night

Day 13 Hokitika/Franz JosefVisit a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory this morning. Watch highly skilled jade sculptors at work, giving you a unique insight into the world of modern jade sculpting. Follow along the wild West Coast road, known for its beautiful scenery and rugged coastline. As we come closer, your view will be dominated by the towering Southern Alps, highlighting your journey to Franz Josef. (B, D)

h Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, 1 night

Day 14 Franz Josef/WanakaToday we leave the isolated West Coast and head inland towards the Mt Aspiring National Park and the picture perfect resort town of Wanaka, set on the shores of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by spectacular mountains. On arrival into Wanaka, you will take a launch cruise that will transport you across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, where you will embark on an informative bush walk with refreshments along the way. (B,D)

h Edgewater Resort, 1 night

Day 15 Wanaka/QueenstownThis morning, depart picturesque Wanaka, a region with a fascinating history of early settlement and gold mining. Arrive late morning into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the top of Bob’s Peak at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant which gives breathtaking views over Queenstown and the Remarkables mountain range. (B, D)

h Rydges Lakeland Resort, 3 nights

Hollyford Track Walk add-on available

Day 16 & 17 QueenstownThe next two days are at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax, or your Coach Captain can assist with any optional activities you would like to do. We highly recommend that whilst in the region you experience a cruise on Lake Wakatipu on the vintage steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, otherwise known as ‘the lady of the lake’. You may even choose to take the add-on option of the Hollyford Track guided walk. (B, D - Dinner on Day 17 is not included allowing the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your choice.)

Day 18 Queenstown/Milford SoundTravelling along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, head towards Fiordland. Follow the Eglinton Valley past lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains. Continue through The Divide and travel into the Hollyford Valley

From

Per Person Twin Share

and Homer Tunnel to reach magnificent Milford Sound. Here you board the Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise – an undoubted highlight. (B, D)

h Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise, 1 night

Day 19 Milford Sound/DunedinWake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal or penguin. On your return to shore, you begin your journey to Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ Tonight prior to dinner, you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony. (B, D)

h Scenic Hotel Dunedin City, 2 nights

Day 20 DunedinToday is at your leisure. Your Coach Captain is available to assist you with organising optional activities. (B, D)

Day 21 Dunedin/Mt CookBegin your day with a city tour of Dunedin which includes the world’s steepest residential street, Dunedin University, the first Church, Speight’s Brewery, Catholic Cathedral and more before a visit to Olveston House, Dunedin’s majestic historic home. Travel north stopping to view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley until you reach Mt Cook National Park. (B, D)

h The Hermitage Hotel, 1 night

Day 22 Mt Cook/ChristchurchThis morning visit the Tasman Glacier where you will be amazed by the floating icebergs in the nearby lake. Visit Lake Tekapo and view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog Memorial. Continue onto Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch for a brief city and surrounds tour. (B, D)

h Quest Christchurch, 1 night

Day 23 Christchurch/HomeToday you will be transferred to Christchurch Airport to join your flight home. (B)

Bay of Islands

AucklandCoromandel

Rotorua

Whangamata

WellingtonNelson

Hokitika


MilfordSound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Matakohe

Wanaka

Tongariro

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2

2

2

1

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3

1

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Ultimate Tours

M

Earlybird discount*

Receive 7.5% off your tour price when you book and pay in full by 30th June 2015.*Conditions apply, see page 63 for details.

M

“We thoroughly enjoyed our time travelling with Kirra and would highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about visiting New Zealand. Overall our experience was fantastic!”

Peter & Diane, England


Guaranteed DeparturesYEAR ROUND 2015/16 from £4,450*pp twin share

DEPARTS FINISHES LINK

FRI 13 NOV 2015 SAT 05 DEC 2015

FRI 11 DEC 2015 SAT 02 JAN 2016

FRI 25 DEC 2015 SAT 16 JAN 2016

FRI 08 JAN 2016 SAT 30 JAN 2016

FRI 29 JAN 2016 SAT 20 FEB 2016

FRI 12 FEB 2016 SAT 05 MAR 2016

FRI 26 FEB 2016 SAT 19 MAR 2016

FRI 25 MAR 2016 SAT 16 APR 2016

Ask us about our additional departures!

For information on Cruise Connections (combining a cruise and coach tour), please turn to page 59.

Tour Code: XE

Picton1

Interislander Ferry

Hollyford Track Add-On


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Overnights2

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Kirra Tours | 23 Day Ultimate New Zealand

22


Kirra Tours | 20 Day Ultimate New Zealand



Day 2 Auckland/WhangamataThis morning you will join your fellow travellers and meet your Coach Captain before departing. A city tour of Auckland takes in Sky Tower, at 328m the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for superb city and harbour views, the downtown area and Waterfront Drive. Then downtown at the Viaduct you will experience the thrill of sailing aboard a 15m yacht on Auckland Harbour, all before heading south to the Coromandel Peninsula. (B, D)


Day 3 Coromandel PeninsulaToday you will go on an exclusive journey through the Coromandel region with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Explore regenerating Kauri forest and lush fern groves, discover the old roads to Puketui, an 1890s gold mining town and visit a goldmine studded with glowworms. Walk on isolated beaches and if conditions permit, take a dip in the springs at Hotwater Beach. A picnic lunch is included. (B, L, D)

Day 4 Whangamata/RotoruaOn to Rotorua today where you visit the Agrodome for its famous Sheep Show, and take a scenic Gondola ride up to the Skyline complex for superb views. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to a wine tasting and buffet lunch, the rest of the afternoon is free for you to enjoy.This evening, take part in a Maori Hangi feast & concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka. (B, L, D)


Day 5 Rotorua/Tongariro National ParkThis morning visit Te Puia, a geothermal reserve with boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser in the historic Te Whakarewarewa Valley. Later head south to the Wairakei Geothermal Valley, visiting Huka Falls and stopping for a lunch break at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. After, you continue on your journey to reach Tongariro National Park, a stunning natural playground. (B, D)


Day 6 Tongariro National Park/WellingtonAs you travel south, the volcanic mountains – Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe dominate the view. Enjoy the scenery as you continue on, heading over the Rimutakas before reaching the capital city

of Wellington. A city tour includes Mount Victoria, the Houses of Parliament, Wellington Cathedral and Oriental Bay, with time afterwards to explore the city as well as Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, set in a breathtaking location on Wellington’s waterfront. (B, D)


Day 7 Wellington/NelsonJoin the early morning Interislander Ferry for the scenic cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sounds to Picton. Upon arrival, it’s on to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts. Here you will visit the World of Wearable Arts and Classic Cars Galleries. (B, D)


Day 8 Nelson or Abel Tasman National ParkToday is at your leisure, why not relax and take the time to explore the shops and art galleries which make Nelson famous. If you would like to explore a little more, your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you, including the Abel Tasman Day Tour, which includes transfers and a picnic lunch. (B, D)

Day 9 Nelson/HokitikaTravelling through the rugged Buller Gorge, a spectacular scenic drive, you visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind. Take a moment to explore the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki before arriving at Hokitika. (B,D)


Day 10 Hokitika/Franz JosefVisit a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory this morning. Departing Hokitika, follow along the wild coastline of the West Coast, known for its beautiful scenery and rugged coastline. As you continue further south and come closer to Franz Josef, your view will be dominated by the towering Southern Alps. (B, D)


Day 11 Franz Josef/WanakaToday leave the isolated West Coast and head inland towards the Mt Aspiring National Park and the picture perfect resort town of Wanaka, set on the shores of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by spectacular mountains. On arrival into Wanaka, you will take a launch cruise that will transport you across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, where you will embark on an informative bush walk with refreshments along the way. (B, D)


UltimateNew Zealand

20 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL




& Concert • Tasman Glacier Experience

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch tours

• Entry to Sky Tower•Agrodome Sheep Show• Skyline Gondola, Wine Tasting

& Lunch• Te Puia Thermal Reserve• Interislander Ferry Crossing•World of Wearable Arts & Classic

Cars Galleries•Cruise to Stevensons Island• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown•Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Entry to Olveston House

7HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the Coromandel Peninsula• Explore Rotorua’s Thermal Reserves• Visit Lake Taupo & Huka Falls• Tongariro National Park• Te Papa Museum• Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery• Franz Josef Glacier• Explore Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Dunedin• Visit Moeraki Boulders• Lake Tekapo & Church of the

Good Shepherd

23Kirra Tours | 20 Day Ultimate New Zealand

Day 12 Wanaka/QueenstownThis morning you will depart picturesque Wanaka, a region with a fascinating history of early settlement and gold mining to arrive late morning into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the top of Bob’s Peak at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant which gives breathtaking views over Queenstown and the Remarkables mountain range. (B, D)



Day 13 & 14 QueenstownThe next two days are at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. A great way to see Queenstown is from Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, otherwise known as the ‘lady of the lake’, which gives you the option of joining an engaging and informative farm tour of the historic Walter Peak High Country Farm. You may even like to try something a little more daring - such as a ride on the Shotover Jet Boat or maybe even a bungy jump! (B, D - Dinner on Day 14 is not included allowing the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your choice.)

Day 15 Queenstown/Milford SoundTravelling along the outskirts of beautiful Lake Wakatipu you will head south towards Fiordland. Follow the Eglinton Valley past native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains. Continue through The Divide and travel into the Hollyford Valley and Homer Tunnel to reach magnificent Milford Sound, described as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. Here you board the Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise – an undoubted highlight. Tonight’s experience will have you departing from Milford Sound Wharf late afternoon and cruising the full length of the Sound until you reach the Tasman Sea. Accompanied by a specialist nature guide, you will learn about the region’s spectacular flora and fauna. Your vessel will then locate a sheltered cove and anchor up for the night where you can then join the nature guide and explore in the vessel’s tender craft or kayaks. Alternatively, simply sit back and relax on deck. (B, D)


Day 16 Milford Sound/DunedinWake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal or penguin. You return to shore to follow the rugged and remote mountains changing to lush green countryside as you approach the Scottish city of Dunedin, known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ Tonight prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony, complete with piper, address to the Haggis and gift. (B, D)


Day 17 DunedinToday is at your leisure, choose to explore the Scottish Capital of Dunedin by leisurely strolling the streets, or on one of the many optional activities available to you, such as the highly recommended journey down the beautiful Otago Peninsula for spectacular views of the coastline. Alternatively, just sit back and relax. If you decide to explore this quaint little city in your own time, then make sure you check out the Chinese Gardens. Your Coach Captain is available to assist with any activities you might like to do. (B, D)

Day 18 Dunedin/Mt CookBegin your day with a city tour of Dunedin which includes the worlds steepest residential street, Dunedin University, the first Church, Speight’s Brewery, Catholic Cathedral and more before a visit to Olveston House, Dunedin’s majestic historic home. Travel north stopping to view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley until you reach Mt Cook National Park. (B, D)


Day 19 Mt Cook/ChristchurchThis morning, visit the Tasman Glacier where you will take a cruise on the rapidly growing terminal lake and take in spectacular mountain views and scenery. Be amazed by the floating icebergs of every shape and size. Afterwards you will visit Lake Tekapo and view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog Memorial. Continue onto Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch for a brief city and surrounds tour. (B, D)


Day 20 Christchurch/HomeToday is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Christchurch Airport to join your flight home. (B)

£3,862*

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1

SUPPLEMENTS






Auckland £64

Christchurch £53

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Auckland & Quest Christchurch).

M

M

“When you’re travelling on a Kirra Coach Tour, make sure you wear your name badge. It helps identify who is in the group and is a great ice breaker when making new friends. It also pays to wear your name tag when doing sightseeing activities, so the tour guide can easily identify who is part of the group.”

Tracey



MON 16 NOV 2015 SAT 05 DEC 2015

MON 14 DEC 2015 SAT 02 JAN 2016

MON 28 DEC 2015 SAT 16 JAN 2016

MON 11 JAN 2016 SAT 30 JAN 2016

MON 01 FEB 2016 SAT 20 FEB 2016

MON 15 FEB 2016 SAT 05 MAR 2016

MON 29 FEB 2016 SAT 19 MAR 2016

MON 28 MAR 2016 SAT 16 APR 2016



From


AucklandCoromandel

Rotorua

Whangamata

WellingtonNelson

Hokitika


Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Tongariro

Kirra Staff Tips

Tour Code: X

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula

Picton2

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

Brief stop

Hollyford Track Add-OnM

MMilfordSound

Earlybird discount*


Ultimate Tours

24


Kirra Tours | 15 Day Ultimate South Island

Day 1 Arrive WellingtonWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport to take you to your hotel.


Day 2 Wellington/NelsonJoin the early morning Interislander ferry for the scenic 3 hour, 92km cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sounds to Picton, which has been described as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world”. Upon arrival, continue on to Nelson, an area noted for its arts and crafts. Here you will visit both the World of Wearable Arts and Classic Cars galleries. (B, D)


Day 3 Nelson or Abel Tasman National ParkToday is at your leisure, take the time to explore the shops and art galleries which make Nelson famous. If you would like to explore a little more, your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. You may like to take a day tour of the Abel Tasman National Park - surround yourself with native bush, golden sandy beaches and clear blue seas for a relaxing day out. (B, D)

Day 4 Nelson/HokitikaTravelling through the rugged Buller Gorge, a spectacular scenic drive, you will visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind. Take a moment to explore and take some photos of the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki before continuing on and arriving into Hokitika. (B, D)


Day 5 Hokitika/Franz JosefVisit a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory this morning. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and is seen as a sign of status and power. It is a hard, highly valued stone found only on the South Island. It was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See how beautiful jewellery is created out of this amazing green stone. Continuing south, you will be mesmerised as you come closer to the Southern Alps - the highest mountain range in Australasia - which run the full length of New Zealand’s South Island and dominate the skyline on your journey to Franz Josef. (B, D)

h Scenic Hotel Franz Josef, 1 night

Day 6 Franz Josef/WanakaToday leave the isolated and wild West Coast and head inland towards the Mt Aspiring National Park and the picture perfect resort town of Wanaka, set

on the shores of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by spectacular mountains. On arrival into Wanaka, you will take a launch cruise that will transport you across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, where you will embark on an informative bush walk with refreshments along the way. (B, D)


Day 7 Wanaka/QueenstownThis morning, depart Wanaka and travel through a region steeped in fascinating history of early settlement and gold mining. Later you arrive into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown and enjoy some time at leisure before taking a spectacular gondola ride to Bobs Peak and the Skyline Restaurant, located high above Queenstown. Whilst you enjoy dinner tonight, don’t forget to stop and take in the breathtaking panoramic views over Queenstown and The Remarkables mountain range. A truly special dining experience. (B, D)



Day 8 & 9 QueenstownThe next two days are at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. We highly recommend you experience the Central Otago wines, you can do this as a half or full day tour. Another great way to see Queenstown is from Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, otherwise known as the ‘Lady of the Lake’. (B, D -Dinner on Day 9 is not included allowing the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your choice.)

Day 10 Queenstown/Milford SoundTravelling along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, you will head towards Fiordland. Follow the Eglinton Valley past native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains, continue through The Divide and travel into the Hollyford Valley and Homer Tunnel to reach Milford Sound. Here you board the Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise – an undoubted highlight. Tonight’s experience will have you departing from Milford Sound Wharf late afternoon and cruising the full length of the Sound until you reach the Tasman Sea. Accompanied by a specialist nature guide, you will learn about the region’s spectacular flora and fauna. Your vessel will then locate a sheltered cove and anchor for the night where you can then join the nature guide and explore in the vessel’s tender craft or kayaks. Or, sit back and relax on deck. (B, D)


Day 11 Milford Sound/DunedinWake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal or penguin.

15 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING

• 14 breakfasts (B) • 12 dinners (D)

bTRAVEL



• Tasman Glacier Experience

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Interislander Ferry Crossing•World of Wearable Arts & Classic

Cars Galleries•Cruise to Stevensons Island• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown•Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Entry to Olveston House•Christchurch City Tour

7HIGHLIGHTS

• Te Papa Museum• Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery• Franz Josef Glacier• Explore Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Dunedin• Visit Moeraki Boulders•Church of the Good Shepherd

M

UltimateSouth Island

25

WellingtonNelson

Hokit ika


Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

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Kirra Tours | 15 Day Ultimate South Island

You return to shore to follow the rugged and remote mountains changing to lush green countryside as you approach Dunedin, known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ Tonight prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony, complete with piper, address to the Haggis and gift. (B, D)

h Scenic Hotel Dunedin, 2 nights

Day 12 DunedinToday is at your leisure, choose to explore the Scottish Capital of Dunedin by leisurely strolling the streets, or on one of the many optional activities available to you, such as the highly recommended journey down the beautiful Otago Peninsula for spectacular views of the coastline. Alternatively, just sit back and relax. If you decide to explore this quaint little city in your own time, make sure you check out the Chinese Gardens, an authentic example of a late Ming/early Ching Dynasty Scholar’s Garden and celebrates Otago’s Chinese heritage. Your Coach Captain is available to assist with any activities you might like to do. (B, D)

Day 13 Dunedin/Mt CookBegin your day with a city tour of Dunedin which includes the world’s steepest residential street, Dunedin University, the first Church, Speight’s Brewery, Catholic Cathedral and more. Next is a visit to Olveston House, Dunedin’s majestic historic home that provides an intimate glimpse into the lifestyle of a privileged family in the 1900s. Departing north, stop to view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore the small town of Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley passing the hydro lakes until you reach Mt Cook National Park and village, amidst New Zealand’s highest mountains. It is here that you will learn about one of New Zealand’s explorers and great ambassadors, Sir Edmund Hillary. If you have time, we recommend that you visit the Alpine Centre to learn about the vast history of the region and discover how Sir Edmund Hillary used Mt Cook as part of his training to help him become one of the first reported to conquer Mt Everest. (B, D)


Day 14 Mt Cook/ChristchurchThis morning you will have an exclusive up close visit to the Tasman Glacier, the largest in the region. You will be met by your guide who will take you through the back roads to the foot of Lake Tasman. It is here you board a specially designed vessel to take you out on the lake to see the amazing floating icebergs. After your glacier experience, pay Lake Tekapo a visit where you will view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog Memorial. The memorial stands to honour the border collies that were brought to New Zealand with Scottish Shepherds in the 19th century, as the high country area surrounding Lake Tekapo could not have been farmed without the assistance of these hard working dogs, known as the ‘Canine Scots’. Leaving the beautiful Lake Tekapo, you continue onto

Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch for a brief city and surrounds tour. (B, D)



£2,765*

SUPPLEMENTS






Wellington £53

Christchurch £53

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Novotel Wellington & Quest Christchurch).

M

Explore some more

Why not arrive early into New Zealand and take some time to explore further?We recommend staying an extra two nights in Wellington. Here are some ideas:

Day 1 Arrive WellingtonExplore Wellington’s vast shopping precinct before heading to Courtney Place or Cuba Street to test out this culinary capital.

Day 2 Visit MartinboroughWhy don’t you treat yourself to a wine tour through the Wairarapa region? Start your journey with a train trip north to Martinborough before meeting your guide who will take you to a selection of boutique vineyards. A fabulous way to uncover the hidden gems of the region whilst enjoying the local food and wine. (Lunch included)

Day 3 WellingtonToday we recommend you visit Weta Cave to get a behind the scenes glimpse into the film industry. Weta are a multi Academy Award winning company that brought not only the ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ to life, but also helped created props and models for other movies such as ‘Avatar’, ‘The Adventures of Tintin’ and ‘District 9’.

If you are interested in extending your stay, speak to one of our New Zealand Specialists and we can arrange this around your Kirra Coach tour.

“I loved Dunedin - it’s a really beautiful city with an interesting history and lots to do in and around it.”

Melissa

Kirra’s Favourite Places

From




SAT 21 NOV 2015 SAT 05 DEC 2015

SAT 19 DEC 2015 SAT 02 JAN 2016

SAT 02 JAN 2016 SAT 16 JAN 2016

SAT 16 JAN 2016 SAT 30 JAN 2016

SAT 06 FEB 2016 SAT 20 FEB 2016

SAT 20 FEB 2016 SAT 05 MAR 2016

SAT 05 MAR 2016 SAT 19 MAR 2016

SAT 02 APR 2016 SAT 16 APR 2016



Tour Code: XV

Wanaka

Picton2

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

Brief stop


MMilfordSound

Earlybird discount*


Ultimate Tours

26


Kirra Tours | 13 Day Ultimate Southern Highlights

Day 1 Arrive ChristchurchWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel. If you arrive early today, we recommend that you take some time to explore Christchurch - the city now showcases some of the most innovative structures in the world. A visit to the Cardboard Cathedral designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban is a must.


Day 2 Christchurch/Greymouth/HokitikaToday you will be transferred from your hotel to Christchurch Train Station, where you will join the famous TranzAlpine Train. Departing Christchurch, you head across the flat open farmland of the Canterbury plains, tracking up through the Southern Alps towards Arthur’s Pass and on to Greymouth. On arrival into Greymouth, you will be transferred to Hokitika with the remainder of the day at your leisure before joining the group for dinner. (B, D)

Please note: After enjoying some free time in Hokitika, tonight, you will be introduced to your Coach Captain and other travelling companions at dinner. For more information please ask your travel agent.


Day 3 Hokitika/Franz JosefVisit a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory this morning. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and is seen as a sign of status and power. It is a hard, highly valued stone found only on the South Island. It was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See how beautiful jewellery is created out of this amazing green stone. Continuing south, you will be mesmerised as you come closer to the Southern Alps as they dominate the horizon, highlighting your journey to Franz Josef. There is time this afternoon to take an optional terminal walk to the Glacier, or perhaps even a scenic flight for spectacular views across the West Coast and Glacier Region (at own cost and weather dependent). (B, D)


Day 4 Franz Josef/WanakaToday leave the isolated and wild West Coast and head inland towards the Mount Aspiring National Park and the picture perfect resort town of Wanaka, set on the shores of Lake Wanaka and surrounded by spectacular mountains. On arrival into Wanaka you will take a launch cruise across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, where you will embark on an informative bush walk with refreshments along the way. (B, D)


Day 5 Wanaka/QueenstownThis morning, depart Wanaka and travel through a region steeped in fascinating history of early settlement and gold mining. Later you arrive into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown and enjoy some time at leisure before taking a spectacular gondola ride to Bobs Peak and the Skyline Restaurant, located high above Queenstown. Whilst you enjoy dinner tonight, don’t forget to stop and take in the breathtaking panoramic views over Queenstown and The Remarkables mountain range. A truly special dining experience. (B, D)



Day 6 & 7 QueenstownThe next two days are at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. We highly recommend that whilst in the region, you experience the Central Otago wines, you can do this as a half or full day tour. Another great way to see Queenstown is from Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, otherwise known as the ‘Lady of the Lake’, which has the option of joining an engaging and informative Farm tour of the historic Walter Peak High Country Farm. You may even like to try something a little more daring - such as a ride on the Shotover Jet Boat or maybe even a bungy jump! (B, D - Dinner on Day 7 is not included allowing the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your choice.)

Day 8 Queenstown/Milford SoundTravelling along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, you will head towards Fiordland. Follow the Eglinton Valley past native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains, continue through The Divide and travel into the Hollyford Valley and Homer Tunnel to reach magnificent Milford Sound. Here, you will board the Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise – an undoubted highlight. Tonight’s experience will have you departing from Milford Sound Wharf late afternoon and cruising the full length of the Sound until you reach the Tasman Sea. Accompanied by a specialist nature guide, you will learn about the region’s spectacular flora and fauna. Your vessel will then locate a sheltered cove and anchor for the night where you can then join the nature guide and explore in the vessel’s tender craft or kayaks. Alternatively, simply sit back and relax. (B, D)


Day 9 Milford Sound/DunedinWake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal or penguin. You return to shore to follow the rugged and remote mountains as they change to lush green countryside on approaching Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the

13 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING

• 12 breakfasts (B)• 10 dinners (D)

bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport•New Zealand Airport transfers• TranzAlpine Train Journey


• TranzAlpine Train Journey• Tasman Glacier Experience

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Cruise to Stevensons Island• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown•Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Entry to Olveston House•Christchurch Tour

7HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery• Franz Josef Glacier• Explore Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Dunedin• Visit Moeraki Boulders•Church of the Good Shepherd

M

UltimateSouthernHighlights

27

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Kirra Tours | 13 Day Ultimate Southern Highlights

South’. Tonight prior to dinner, you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony, complete with piper, address to the Haggis and gift. (B, D)


Day 10 DunedinToday is at your leisure. Choose to explore the Scottish Capital of Dunedin by leisurely strolling the streets, or enjoy one of the many optional activities available to you, such as a highly recommended journey down the beautiful Otago Peninsula for spectacular views of the coastline. If you decide to explore this quaint little city in your own time, make sure you check out the Chinese Gardens. Your Coach Captain is available to assist with any particular requests. (B, D)

Day 11 Dunedin/Mt CookBegin your day with a city tour of Dunedin which includes the world’s steepest residential street, Dunedin University, the first Church, Speight’s Brewery, Catholic Cathedral and more. Next is a visit to Olveston House, Dunedin’s majestic historic home that provides an intimate glimpse into the lifestyle of a privileged family in the 1900s. Departing north, stop to view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore thesmall town of Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley passing the hydro lakes until you reach Mt Cook National Park and village. It is here that you will learn about one of New Zealand’s explorers and great ambassadors, Sir Edmund Hillary. If you have time, we recommend that you visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, which pays tribute to one of the world’s greatest explorers. Here you can discover how Sir Edmund Hillary used Mt Cook as part of his training to help him become one of the first reported to conquer Mt Everest. (B, D)


Day 12 Mt Cook/ChristchurchThis morning you will have an exclusive up close visit to the Tasman Glacier, the largest in the region. You will be met by your guide who will take you through the back roads to the foot of Lake Tasman. It is here you board a specially designed vessel to take you out on the lake to see the amazing floating icebergs and the dramatic surrounding scenery. After your glacier experience, travel to stunning Lake Tekapo where you can view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog Memorial. The memorial stands to honour the border collies that were brought to New Zealand with Scottish Shepherds in the 19th century, as the high country area surrounding Lake Tekapo could not have been farmed without the assistance of these hard working dogs. Leaving beautiful Lake Tekapo behind, continue onto Burkes Pass to cross the vast Canterbury Plains until you arrive into Christchurch. Enjoy a brief city and surrounds tour to give you an insight into this inspiring city and community. (B, D)



£2,555*

SUPPLEMENTS

Single Room Supp. Add £996





Christchurch £53

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Quest Christchurch).

M

“Always try to travel with an open mind and learn to expect the unexpected, wherever you are. It can really enrich your experience!”

Lyn

Kirra Staff Tips

“I loved taking the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak in Queenstown - there’s so much to see and do up there! Enjoy the spectacular panoramic views while enjoying a buffet lunch or dinner, take a ride around the luge track, as well as the adrenalin activities Queenstown is famous for - like bungy jumping & paragliding!”

Kirsty


From


Hokit ika


Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka



MON 23 NOV 2015 SAT 05 DEC 2015

MON 21 DEC 2015 SAT 02 JAN 2016

MON 04 JAN 2016 SAT 16 JAN 2016

MON 18 JAN 2016 SAT 30 JAN 2016

MON 08 FEB 2016 SAT 20 FEB 2016

MON 22 FEB 2016 SAT 05 MAR 2016

MON 07 MAR 2016 SAT 19 MAR 2016

MON 04 APR 2016 SAT 16 APR 2016



Tour Code: XL

Queenstown

Train Journey


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

2

MMilfordSound


Explore some more

Why not arrive early into New Zealand and take some time to explore further?We recommend staying an extra night in Christchurch. Here is our recommendation if you choose to stay longer:

Day 1 Explore AkaroaTake a journey to Akaroa, the French influenced harbour-side town which once was a old French whaling depot. Exploring the seaside town, you will board a two hour cruise to seek out the local marine life that populate the waters such as dolphins, penguins and seals. Enjoy a lunch at a popular local restaurant and cheese tasting at a local factory before returning you back to your hotel.


Greymouth

r

Earlybird discount*


Ultimate Tours

28



Day 2 Auckland/Bay of IslandsDrive north to Paihia where you will meet your knowledgeable Maori guide, before a visit to Waitangi, New Zealand’s birthplace, for a self-guided tour. This afternoon enjoy the ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise. (B, D)


Day 3 Bay of IslandsToday is at your leisure. Take the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Islands. If you want to take advantage of your time here, your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. Why not try a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northern most point, and see where the Tasman Sea collides with the Pacific Ocean. (B, D)

Day 4 Bay of Islands/AucklandReturning to Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south, travelling via Matakohe, home of The Kauri Museum. Learn about the Kauri tree and the history of the regions early settlement. Continuing on, Auckland city and harbour will shortly come into view. (B, D)


Day 5 Auckland/WhangamataEnjoy a city tour of Auckland and a visit to the 328m tall Sky Tower for superb views. Afterwards, board a 15m yacht for a cruise on Auckland Harbour, all before heading south to the Coromandel Peninsula. (B, D)


Day 6 Coromandel PeninsulaToday, explore the Coromandel region with Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Enjoy the beauty of the semi-tropical rainforest, visit the historic gold caves sparkling with glowworms and hear the fascinating history of the area. View stunning coastal scenery with white sand beaches and cliffs decorated with Pohutukawa trees. Picnic lunch is included. (B, L, D)

Day 7 Whangamata/RotoruaOn to Rotorua today where you will visit the Agrodome and take a Gondola ride up to the Skyline complex for a wine tasting and buffet lunch. This evening, take part in a Maori Hangi feast & concert featuring songs and the haka. (B, L, D)


Day 8 Rotorua/Tongariro National ParkThis morning visit Te Puia, a geothermal reserve with boiling mud, silica terraces & the Pohutu Geyser. From Rotorua head south to the Wairakei Geothermal Valley, visiting Huka Falls and Lake Taupo before continuing on to reach Tongariro National Park. (B, D)


Day 9 Tongariro National Park/WellingtonTravel south and enjoy a city tour on arrival into Wellington, with time afterwards to explore the city as well as Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. (B, D)


Day 10 Wellington/HomeToday you will be transferred to Wellington Airport to join your flight home. (B)

Inclusions & Highlights

Kirra Tours | 10 Day Ultimate North Island

10 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport•New Zealand Airport transfers



& Concert

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Auckland & Wellington Tours• Entry to Kauri Museum• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds•Hole in the Rock Cruise• Entry to Sky Tower•Agrodome Sheep Show• Skyline Gondola, Wine Tasting

& Lunch• Te Puia Thermal Reserve

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Discover the Bay of Islands• Visit the Coromandel Peninsula• Explore Rotorua’s Thermal Reserves• Visit Lake Taupo & Huka Falls• Tongariro National Park• Te Papa Museum

£1,899*

Ult imate Tours

SUPPLEMENTS



Auckland £64

Wellington £53

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Auckland & Novotel Wellington).

2

2

1

1

2

1

Your Tour ItineraryUltimate Tours

OptionUltimate

North Island

From


Bay of Islands

Coromandel

Rotorua

Whangamata

Wellington

Matakohe

Tongariro

Auckland


YEAR ROUND 2015/16 from £1,899*pp twin share


FRI 13 NOV 2015 SUN 22 NOV 2015

FRI 11 DEC 2015 SUN 20 DEC 2015

FRI 25 DEC 2015 SUN 03 JAN 2016

FRI 08 JAN 2016 SUN 17 JAN 2016

FRI 29 JAN 2016 SUN 07 FEB 2016

FRI 12 FEB 2016 SUN 21 FEB 2016

FRI 26 FEB 2016 SUN 06 MAR 2016

FRI 25 MAR 2016 SUN 03 APR 2016



Tour Code: XP

Brief stop


2 Overnights

Earlybird discount*


29

M

£1,899*

The dramatic Hollyford Track guided wilderness experience is one of the greatest nature walks in New Zealand. Explore undisturbed and inspiring scenery that has remained largely untouched for thousands of years. From the snow capped mountains of the Southern Alps, to the remote sand dunes, reef and surf of the rugged West Coast. The experiences are just as diverse and include hiking through ‘World Heritage Area’ wilderness, native wildlife encounters, wilderness jet-boating, exploring historical sites, and a scenic flight to Milford Sound. Marvel at ever changing scenery from towering mountains to pounding coast and everything in between, explore an unspoiled wilderness with giants of an ancient forest and native wildlife and discover your sense of adventure.

The afternoon you arrive into Queenstown you are required to attend a pre-track briefing. At this point you will be advised on what to take and the features of your upcoming adventure. It’s also a chance to arrange loan backpacks and pack liners for those that require one.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Hollyford Track is pleasantly challenging and highly rewarding, without being out of reach for people with an average fitness level.

People of all ages and abilities have and will continue to enjoy the Hollyford Track adventure.

The average age of walkers is 40+ but many people in their 60s and over have also taken up the challenge and enjoyed this unique experience.

PLEASE NOTE

Places are limited for the Hollyford Track and are not available on all departures. Minimum 6 people required for guided walks.

For full availability contact your local travel agent or Kirra Tours for details.


HollyfordTrack

Option

This optional experience fits in perfectly with your Ultimate Tour and runs over what is otherwise the Queenstown stop

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 2 nights on-track lodge style accommodation

\DINING


bTRAVEL

• Transfers to the start of the track

INCLUSIONS

•Wilderness Jet Boat Journey•Milford Sound Scenic

Helicopter Flight• Expert guides•Use of backpacks & rainjackets

Day 1 Queenstown to Pyke River LodgeTravel in comfort through some of New Zealand’s most divine scenery of beautiful lakes and glacial valleys dwarfed by majestic mountains to the start of the track in the Hollyford Valley.

Shadowing the swift clear waters of the Hollyford River and beneath the gaze of the mighty Southern Alps, you’ll re-trace footsteps of original Maori and early pioneer explorers as the track undulates gently through native beech forest and beside impressive tumbling waterfalls.

At the end of your first day’s adventure, you’ll be welcomed at Pyke Lodge by your friendly lodge hosts. (L, D)

Distance walked: 17kms (10.5mi), approx 5-7 hours

Day 2 Pyke River Lodge to Martins Bay LodgeThe day begins by being rewarded with a mystical forest, reflections like a mirror on Lake Alabaster and the satisfaction of an optional crossing of Fiordlands longest swing bridge. After a short walk you’ll board a jet boat for the next part of your adventure, a captivating scenic ride along the Hollyford River and down Lake McKerrow.

Human history in the Hollyford Valley is as incredible as the scenery and you’ll stop to discover the tragedies and triumphs of ill-fated Jamestown before walking through ancient forest giants, some believed to be up to 1000 years old. A little farther on, Long Reef plays host to a colony of native New Zealand Fur Seals. Martin’s Bay Lodge completes a special second day. (B,L,D)

Distance walked: 30kms (19mi), approx 4-5 hours

Day 3 Martin’s Bay Lodge to Milford Sound & QueenstownExplore Martin’s Bay Spit, a famous landmark separating the powerful Tasman Sea from the Hollyford Valley, and a coastal landscape that is a world away from the previous days.

Here you will view historical sites of Maori occupation. Returning to Martins Bay Lodge for lunch, before you board your aircraft for a scenic flight along the rugged coast and into the truly spectacular and dramatic Milford Sound where you’ll marvel at the grandeur of vertical granite walls rising from the sea.

Once in Milford you will rejoin your tour group for the Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise. (B,L)

Distance walked: 8kms (5mi), approx 3-4 hours

Hollyford Track

Kirra Tours | Hollyford Track Optional Add On

£1,130*

SUPPLEMENTS


From


Trekking in lush green paradise, Hollyford Valley

30

SnapshotsTours

Snapshots Tours

groups.

uniqueImmerse yourself

on one of Kirra’s

in the

PERFECTfor smaller

side of

31Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata

Hidden treasures

32

Day 1 Arrive AucklandWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel, where you will enjoy hosted courtesy welcome canapés and a drink prior to dinner. This gives you the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow travellers. (D)

h Stamford Plaza Auckland, 1 night

Day 2 Auckland/HokiangaBegin your journey at Muriwai’s gannet colony for a short scenic walk. Later visit the fascinating Kauri Museum before travelling north to Hokianga. Tonight, a Maori guide will take you into the mighty Waipoua Kauri Forest, a sacred place steeped in mystery and myth. The forest is home to Tane Mahuta, a 2,000 year old Kauri tree. The ‘Lord of the Forest’ has a diameter of 4.4m and stands approximately 50m high. (B, D)

h Copthorne Hotel & Resort Hokianga, 1 night

Day 3 Hokianga/Bay of IslandsTravel across Northland, the ‘birthplace of New Zealand’, to beautiful Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Visit the Waitangi Treaty House, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed on 6 February, 1840. A local guide will provide information and insight into its cultural history and significance. This afternoon board a launch cruise to Cape Brett and the spectacular ‘Hole in the Rock’. Dinner tonight is at your own arrangement. (B)

h Copthorne Hotel & Resort, 1 night

Day 4 Bay of Islands/Coromandel PeninsulaJourney south today until Auckland city and its wide Harbour come into view. Take a tour of this ‘City of Sails’ including a visit to the summit of the Sky Tower, a perfect place to marvel at the panoramic views across the city and its harbours. Later, continue on your journey to reach the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches and natural forests. (B, D)

h Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort, 1 night

Day 5 Coromandel Peninsula/RotoruaThis morning take a fascinating walk into the rainforest before heading onwards to Rotorua, the centre of Maori culture in New Zealand and a geothermal wonderland. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal) with traditionally prepared food followed by a cultural concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring Haka. (B, D)

h Millennium Hotel Rotorua, 2 nights

Day 6 RotoruaEnjoy a visit to Te Puia for the Whakarewarewa Maori Arts and Crafts Centre, which focuses on passing down Maori culture and traditional values. Marvel at the Thermal Reserve of boiling mud, silica terraces and famous Pohutu Geyser. You will then ride the spectacular Skyline Gondola to enjoy wine tasting and a delicious buffet lunch all while taking in the magnificent panoramic views over Rotorua and surrounds. This afternoon is free to explore at your leisure. Dinner tonight is at your own arrangement. (B, L)

Day 7 Rotorua/Matamata/AucklandArrive at Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata for your guided visit and light lunch at the Green Dragon Inn. See how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire. After your tour, travel north to Auckland where your tour concludes late afternoon in Auckland city centre. (B, L)


Kirra Tours | 7 Day Cultural Snapshots

7 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 6 nights in luxury 4.5 star hotels

\DINING

•Canapés & welcome drinks at your hotel


bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport•New Zealand Airport transfer


• Footprints Waipoua Evening Encounter

•Coromandel Guided Nature Walk•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi

& Concert•Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour

& Lunch

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Entry to Matakohe Kauri Museum•Guided Tour of Waitangi Treaty

House & Grounds•Cape Brett Lighthouse & Hole in the

Rock Cruise• Entry to Sky Tower• Te Puia Thermal Reserve•Rotorua Skyline Gondola &

Buffet Lunch• Volcanic Hills Winery Tasting

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Auckland & Rotorua Tours•Auckland West Coast & Murawai

Gannet Colony•West Coast Northland & the Bay

of Islands•Historic township of Russell• Visit the Coromandel Peninsula• Visit Te Puke, Kiwifruit Capital of

the World• Explore Rotorua’s Thermal Reserves

£1,643*

SUPPLEMENTS



Auckland £86

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Stamford Plaza Auckland).

1

1

11

2

7 DayYour Tour Itinerary

Ult imate ToursSnapshots Tours




THU 21 JAN 2016 WED 27 JAN 2016

THU 18 FEB 2016 WED 24 FEB 2016

SAT 19 MAR 2016 FRI 25 MAR 2016


Show us your Snapshots!Are you heading off to New Zealand to join a Kirra Coach Tour? We love hearing about all the fun our passengers have on the road and we’d love for you to share your experience with us. Search for ‘Kirra Tours’ on Facebook and upload your pics to our page.

Or upload your photos to Instagram and tag us!@kirratours #kirratours

CulturalSnapshots

From


Bay of Islands

Auckland Coromandel

Rotorua

Waipoua Forest

Hokianga

Te PukeMatamata

Tour Code: ENC

Brief stop


2 Overnights

Earlybird discount*


33

Day 1 Arrive ChristchurchWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel, where you will enjoy hosted courtesy welcome canapés and a drink prior to dinner. This gives you the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow travellers. (D)

h Rydges Latimer Christchurch, 1 night

Day 2 Christchurch/Lake Tekapo/Mt CookTravel across the Canterbury Plains into the foothills of the Southern Alps. View the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and stunning Lake Tekapo. Take a highly recommended (optional and weather dependent) flight with Air Safaris before you continue on to MountCook National Park. Here, take a Tasman Glacier cruise for an up close encounter with New Zealand’s largest glacier. View icebergs of many different shapes and sizes and enjoy the spectacular views. (B, D)


Day 3 Mt Cook/QueenstownTravel across the winding Lindis Pass and through the roaring Kawarau Gorge, stopping at historic Cromwell and Arrowtown. Later, arrive into the popular resort of Queenstown. Tonight, take the gondola up to the Skyline Restaurant for a unique Kiwi Haka Show and delicious buffet dinner, with panoramic views of Queenstown. (B, D)

h Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, 2 nights

Day 4 QueenstownToday is at your leisure. You can either sit back and relax or your Coach Captain can assist with optional activities. We recommend the famous Shotover Jet Boat ride, or a tour to Skippers Canyon. Alternatively, browse the many shops and galleries. Dinner tonight is at your own arrangement. (B)

Day 5 Queenstown/Doubtful SoundDepart Queenstown and travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Enter Fiordland and cruise picturesque Lake Manapouri before boarding the Fiordland Navigator at Deep Cove for stunning views of Doubtful Sound on your overnight cruise. As you cruise through the fiord’s beautiful scenery, keep an eye out for dolphins, fur seals and penguins. (B, D)

h Fiordland Navigator Overnight Cruise, 1 night

Day 6 Doubtful Sound/DunedinWake to silence in a pristine world, before disembarking your vessel and rejoining your coach. Rugged and remote mountains change to lush green countryside as you approach Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. On arrival, you will be taken on a short city tour to see classic Victorian and Edwardian architecture, the University of Otago, and also Baldwin Street – the steepest street in the world! Become a part of Speight’s Brewery history this evening by enjoying a brewery tour and then dinner at Speight’s Alehouse. (B, D)

h Scenic Hotel Southern Cross, 1 night

Day 7 Dunedin/ChristchurchVisit Larnach Castle for stunning views of the coast and an insight into the Castle’s tragic history. Leave Dunedin and travel to historical Oamaru where you will have time to explore the Victorian Precincts or perhaps visit the weird and wonderful Steampunk Gallery (own expense). Later, cross the vast Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, arriving in the late afternoon where your tour concludes at the airport. (B)

£1,643* £1,749*

SUPPLEMENTS



Christchurch £68

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Latimer Christchurch).

1

1

21


7 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING

•Canapés & welcome drinks at your hotel


bTRAVEL



• Tasman Glacier Experience

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Doubtful Sound Navigator Overnight Cruise

• Skyline Gondola & Dinner, Queenstown

•Kiwi Haka Cultural Performance• Larnach Castle Guided Tour• Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Christchurch, Queenstown & Dunedin Tours

•Discover Lake Tekapo•Church of the Good Shepherd•Aoraki (Mt Cook) National Park• Free day to explore Queenstown•Discover the Otago Peninsula•Cromwell’s Old town•Picturesque Arrowtown• Experience Victorian Precinct

at Oamaru

Kirra Tours | 7 Day Scenic Snapshots

Your Tour ItinerarySnapshots Tours



ScenicSnapshots

From


Christchurch

Doubtful Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Lake Tekapo

Lake Manapouri




FRI 15 JAN 2016 THU 21 JAN 2016

FRI 12 FEB 2016 THU 18 FEB 2016

FRI 11 MAR 2016 THU 17 MAR 2016


Tour Code: ESS

Brief stop


2 Overnights

1

Earlybird discount*


34

Day 1 Arrive ChristchurchWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel, where you will enjoy hosted courtesy welcome canapés and a drink prior to dinner. This gives you the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow travellers. (D)

h Rydges Latimer Christchurch, 1 night

Day 2 Christchurch/Franz JosefToday you will travel on the TranzAlpine train through spectacular gorges and the Waimakariri River valley, crossing the Southern Alps before descending through beech forests into Greymouth. Visit a Jade gallery to see native jade crafted into fine jewellery before heading south to Franz Josef village. You will have free time here to enjoy optional activities (own expense) such as a helicopter flight and snow-landing, or perhaps relax in the local Glacier Hot Pools. (D)


Day 3 Franz Josef/QueenstownThis morning travel south, following the wild and rugged coastline and crossing the Alps of Haast Pass into the Mount Aspiring National Park. Arrive into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown late afternoon with the rest of the day free. This evening, you will take the gondola up to the Skyline complex at Bobs Peak to enjoy a unique Kiwi Haka Show and a mouth-wateringbuffet dinner with panoramic views. (B, D)

h Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, 2 nights

Day 4 QueenstownToday is completely at your leisure so you can sit back and relax, or your Coach Captain can assist with any optional activities you would like to do. We recommend the world famous Shotover Jet Boat ride or a tour to the gold mining area of Skippers Canyon. Alternatively, browse in the many shops and galleries. Tonight, cruise across the lake aboard the steamship TSS Earnslaw for dinner in the Colonel’s Homestead at Walter Peak High Country Farm, a very special night out. (B, D)

Day 5 Queenstown/Lake TekapoA leisurely start this morning; depart Queenstown and head to The Nose Restaurant & Bar for lunch and wine tasting. Afterwards continue on over the Lindis Pass, through the Mt Cook National Park to arrive into Tekapo. View the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd as well as the Collie Dog Memorial, both overlooking the milky blue waters of stunning Lake Tekapo with time for a highly recommended (optional and weather dependent) flight with Air Safaris. This evening, enjoy a truly memorable experience on the Mt John Stargazing Tour; a journey to explore the wonders of space. When stars are hidden from sight by cloud, you will instead explore behind the scenes of the Observatory, usually out-of-bounds to the public. (B, L, D)

h Peppers Bluewater Resort, 1 night

Please note: The Mt John Stargazing Tour has a late departure due to the time of sunset. Departures can be between 9:30pm – midnight during the peak summer months. As a result of this, there will be a late departure from Lake Tekapo tomorrow morning.

Day 6 Tekapo/ChristchurchDescend through Burkes Pass and travel past small and picturesque New Zealand towns before finally reaching the Canterbury Plains and its patchwork of farmlands. You will arrive back into Christchurch mid afternoon where your tour concludes at Christchurch Airport. (B)


Kirra Tours | 6 Day TranzAlpine Snapshots

6 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING

• 4 breakfasts (B)• 1 lunch (L) • 5 dinners (D)•Canapés & welcome drinks

at your hotel

bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport• TranzAlpine Train Journey•New Zealand Airport transfer


• TranzAlpine Train Journey•Mount John Observatory

Stargazing Tour

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Skyline Gondola & Dinner, Queenstown

•Kiwi Haka Cultural Performance• TSS Earnslaw Cruise &

Homestead Dinner• The Nose Restaurant & Bar, Lunch &

Wine Tasting

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Queenstown & Christchurch Tours• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery• Explore the West Coast

Glacier Region•Mt Aspiring National Park•Brief Tour of Lake Wanaka• Free day to explore Queenstown•Central Otago Wine &

Food Experience•Aoraki (Mt Cook) National Park•Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve•Discover Lake Tekapo•Church of the Good Shepherd

£1,510*

1

2

5 Day

1

Your Tour ItineraryUlt imate ToursSnapshots Tours

SUPPLEMENTS



Christchurch £68

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Latimer Christchurch).

TranzAlpineSnapshots

From



Queenstown

Greymouth

Lake TekapoHaast Pass

Lindis Pass




FRI 08 JAN 2016 WED 13 JAN 2016

FRI 05 FEB 2016 WED 10 FEB 2016

FRI 18 MAR 2016 WED 23 MAR 2016


Tour Code: EST

Train Journey


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

r1



Earlybird discount*


35

Day 1 Arrive AucklandWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel, where you will enjoy hosted courtesy welcome canapés and a drink prior to dinner. This gives you the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow travellers. (D)

h Stamford Plaza Auckland, 2 nights

Day 2 AucklandAn Auckland city tour this morning will provide a wonderful overview of this ‘City of Sails’, taking in the Viaduct Harbour and the historic buildings before you cross the Harbour Bridge to visit Devonport. Travel to the summit of Mt Victoria for panoramic views before leaving the city behind and heading west to Kumeu Wine Country. Here, enjoy wine tastings and a vineyard restaurant lunch before travelling to Muriwai’s gannet colony. A short walk will take you to a viewing platform right above the main colony area for views over the beach below. (D, L)

Day 3 Auckland/Matamata/RotoruaArrive at Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata for a fun and interesting guided tour, before continuing your journey towards Rotorua, the centre of Maori culture and a thermal wonderland. Take a Gondola ride to the Skyline Restaurant for a delicious buffet lunch with spectacular views over city, lake and mountains before enjoying a free afternoon to explore at your leisure. This evening immerse yourself in Maori culture at Te Po, an authentic night out showcasing a traditional feast of food, culture and friendship. (B, L, D)

h Millennium Hotel Rotorua, 2 nights

Day 4 Rotorua/Taupo/RotoruaThis morning, experience a unique River Safari which combines geothermal terrain with a thrilling jet boat ride down to Orakei Korako; one of New Zealand’s most popular geothermal attractions. Walk around this magnificent thermal reserve and admire its unique geysers, boiling mud and silica terraces before rejoining your coach to continue on to the mighty Huka Falls. Later, stop for lunch at Huka Prawn Park before a quick pause at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Enjoy Tongariro National Park, dominated by its three volcanic peaks, before returning to Rotorua. Dinner tonight is at your own arrangement. (B, L)

Day 5 Rotorua/Waitomo/AucklandYour tour today takes you to the Waitomo Caves for a guided tour and a magical subterranean boat ride through limestone caverns. Travel north to arrive in Auckland city centre where your tour concludes mid-afternoon. (B)

£1,510* £1,168*

2Inclusions & Highlights

5 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING

• 3 breakfasts (B)• 3 lunches (L)• 3 dinners (D)•Canapés & welcome drinks at

your hotel

bTRAVEL



•Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Soljans Winery Lunch & Tasting 5 Wines

•Wine tasting at 3 local wineries•Rotorua Skyline Gondola &

Buffet Lunch• Te Po Evening Experience & Hangi•NZ Riverjet Geothermal Safari• Lunch at Huka Prawn Park•Guided Tour of Waitomo

Glowworm Caves

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Auckland & Rotorua Tours• Explore Devonport & Auckland’s

North Shore•Discover the Kumeu Wine

Country Region•Auckland West Coast & Murawai

Gannet Colony•Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako• Visit Lake Taupo• Tongariro National Park

Kirra Tours | 5 Day Geothermal Snapshots

Your Tour ItinerarySnapshots Tours

SUPPLEMENTS



Auckland £86

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Stamford Plaza Auckland).

GeothermalSnapshots

From


Auckland

Rotorua

Matamata

Lake TaupoTongariro

Waitomo




WED 13 JAN 2016 SUN 17 JAN 2016

WED 10 FEB 2016 SUN 14 FEB 2016

WED 23 MAR 2016 SUN 27 MAR 2016


Tour Code: ENG

Brief stop


2 Overnights

2

Explore some more

We recommend staying an extra night in Auckland to explore further. Here is our recommendation for extending your stay:

Day 1 Explore Waiheke IslandCatch the Waiheke Island ferry from Auckland’s Downtown Ferry Terminal at 10:00am daily. Take a scenic cruise across the harbour and spend the day exploring the island, known for its many wineries and vineyards. Taste some of the regions best wines on a half or full day wine tour. Travel in a comfortable minibus to 3 or more of the top vineyards on the island. Stop for lunch at one of the island’s beachside cafes or vineyard restaurants.




Earlybird discount*


36

New discoveries

ClassicTours

37

Classic Tours

iconicBalanced

popular

ITINERARIES& all thesights

make our

to experiencea way

Southern Alps, Canterbury

38


Kirra Tours | 18 Day Classic New Zealand Panorama

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 17 nights in centrally located 3.5 star hotels

\DINING


bTRAVEL



•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi & Concert

•Milford Sound Cruise

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch Tours

• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds•Hole in the Rock Cruise• Entry to Sky Tower•Agrodome Sheep Show•Rainbow Springs Park• Skyline Gondola & Luge Ride• Tui Brewery & Museum• Interislander Ferry Crossing• The Olde Malthouse Blenheim

tasting & dinner• International Antarctic Centre• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Larnach Castle Guided Tour•Walter Peak Cruise & Dinner

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Wonderful Bay Of Islands•Brief Rotorua Tour• Visit to Huka Falls• Visit the Art Deco Capital, Napier• Visit the Wairarapa Region• Te Papa Museum•Brief tour of Blenheim• Lake Tekapo & Church of the

Good Shepherd•Brief tour of Dunedin• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Lake Wanaka• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery



Day 2 Auckland/Bay of IslandsDrive north to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Meet your local Maori guide who will provide an insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. A self-guided tour through the Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and war canoe. This afternoon enjoy a launch cruise to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and ‘Hole in the Rock’. (B, D)


Day 3 Bay of IslandsToday is at your leisure, take the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. Why not try a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northern most point and Ninety Mile Beach. Alternatively, explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first settlement and visit its original Church, MissionHouse and Museum. (B, D)

Day 4 Bay of Islands/RotoruaToday travel south through Whangarei to Warkworth and on to Auckland with its majestic harbour. A visit to the summit of Sky Tower, at 328m the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for panoramic views across the city and its two harbours, the Domain and the central city area. Cross the Bombay Hills to the lush farmlands of the Waikato noted for its horse studs and the bush clad Mamaku Ranges to Rotorua, the centre of Maori culture. (B, D)

h Sudima Lake Rotorua, 2 nights

Day 5 RotoruaA sightseeing tour visits the Agrodome to see a display featuring New Zealand’s various sheep breeds and sheep shearing followed by Rainbow Springs to see Rainbow and Brown trout and native birds including the Kiwi. The spectacular Skyline Gondola offers superb views over city, lake and mountains and for a little excitement try a Luge ride with our compliments. There will be time this afternoon for optional activities.This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal) with traditionally prepared meats and vegetables followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirring haka. (B, D)

Day 6 Rotorua/Napier/MastertonSkirt some of the world’s largest pine forests to Wairakei where natural steam is harnessed to

generate electricity. View the Huka Falls where the Waikato River pours through a narrow chasm and pause at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Continue across to the Hawke’s Bay region and Napier, claimed to be the world’s art deco capital. Orchards and vineyards give way to farmlands as you pass through Hastings then to Dannevirke and Woodville for a stop at Mangatainoka, home to Tui Brewery, before continuing on to Masterton for the night. (B, D)

h Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park, 1 night

Day 7 Masterton/WellingtonA leisurely day as you travel south over the Rimutaka ranges into the capital city, Wellington. A city tour includes the summit of Mount Victoria for views over the city and its harbour, the Houses of Parliament and ‘Beehive’, Wellington Cathedral, the central city and Oriental Bay. Also explore the city yourself, don’t miss Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand or take a ride on the famous Cable Car. (B, D)

h Ibis Wellington, 1 night

Day 8 Wellington/Picton/BlenheimEnjoy some free time this morning to either relax or make the most of Wellington’s endless sights. Join the afternoon Interislander Ferry which affords great views of Wellington and its hillside suburbs and cross the Cook Strait into the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound and the South Island. Upon arrival into Picton, continue south to Blenheim where you will be dining this evening at The Olde Malthouse. Here, you will take a guided walk to discover the rich and fascinating history of this 1858 building, as well as enjoying a tasting of Marlborough wines and Renaissance Craft beers. (B, D)

h Scenic Hotel Marlborough, 1 night

Day 9 Blenheim/Kaikoura/ChristchurchPass Lake Grassmere then follow the coastline to Kaikoura, an area noted for whale watching. Over the Hundalee Ranges and onto the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. Visit the International Antarctic Centre and enjoy a brief tour of Christchurch and its surrounds. (B, D)

h Sudima Christchurch, 1 night

Day 10 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaCross the broad Canterbury Plains with the Southern Alps to the west. Enter the foothills near Geraldine to the barren MacKenzie Country. View the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial overlooking Lake Tekapo. Visit Mt Cook National Park, with time to enjoy the scenic majesty of New Zealand’s highest snow capped peaks and a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre before travelling around Lake Pukaki to Twizel and Omarama. (B, D)

h Heritage Gateway Hotel, 1 night

18 DayClassic

New ZealandPanorama

39

£2,995*


Auckland £64

Christchurch £54

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Auckland & Sudima Christchurch).

Kirra Tours | 18 Day Classic New Zealand Panorama

Day 11 Omarama/DunedinPass large hydro lakes as you travel down the Waitaki Valley to Oamaru and Dunedin – the ‘Scottish’ city. An early arrival allows the choice of excellent optional activities; your Coach Captain will be able to assist with these. This evening prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony complete with piper, address to the Haggis and gift. (B, D)

h Cargills Hotel, 1 night

Day 12 Dunedin/Te AnauToday visit historic Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Learn about its tragic and mysterious history as well as enjoying the truly spectacular views across the Otago Peninsula and coast. Later leave Dunedin behind and head inland, crossing rich farmlands to the agricultural towns of Gore and Lumsden before arriving at the shores of Lake Te Anau. (B, D)

h Distinction Luxmore Hotel, 2 nights

Day 13 Milford Sound Day TripFollow the Hollyford Valley where the Beech forests reach to the roads edge and snow capped peaks tower above. Descend into the Cleddau Canyon to Milford Sound, the world renowned natural wonder, dominated by Mitre Peak. Luxuriant rainforest clings to sheer rock walls and waterfalls tumble hundreds of meters to the sea below. A launch cruise takes you to the open sea and shows such highlights as the Bowen and Stirling Falls. If time and weather permits, walk into the rainforest to visit The Chasm, a spectacular waterfall, and then pause at the Homer Tunnel. After your tour you will return to Te Anau. (B, D)

Day 14 Te Anau/QueenstownThis morning, drive north to Kingston and around the shores of Lake Wakatipu to picturesque Queenstown. This evening, cruise across the lake aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, known as the ‘Lady of the Lake’. Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is named after the highest peak in the region, Mount Earnslaw. On the journey across the lake take in some of Lake Wakatipu’s most beautiful alpine scenery, before reaching the Colonel’s Homestead at Walter Peak High Country Farm for dinner. (B, D)


Day 15 QueenstownToday is at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax or your Coach Captain can assist with any optional activities you would like to do. We recommend you take a ride on the world famous Shotover Jet Boat, take a gondola ride to the Skyline above for spectacular views, take a tour to the gold mining area of Skippers Canyon or for the adventurous - white water rafting. Alternatively, browse in the many shops and galleries. (B, D)

Day 16 Queenstown/Haast Pass/Franz JosefPass picturesque Lake Hayes on to an area steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold mining era, to Lake Wanaka, a picture postcard resort on the lakes edge with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Pass Lake Hawea and the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora into Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Drive north along the coast to the glacier region. (B, D)


Day 17 Franz Josef/ChristchurchToday we head north along the coast and pay a visit to a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and is seen as a sign of status and power. It is a hard, highly valued stone found only on the south island. It was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See how beautiful jewellery is created out of this amazing green stone. Cross the Otira Gorge and Arthur’s Pass to the Canterbury Plains and into Christchurch. (B, D)


TranzAlpine Train add-on available

Day 18 Christchurch/HomeToday is goodbye to all your new friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Christchurch Airport to join your flight home. (B)

Classic Tours

WINTER 2016 from £2,995*pp twin share


TUE 10 MAY 2016 FRI 27 MAY 2016

TUE 23 AUG 2016 FRI 09 SEP 2016

TUE 20 SEP 2016 FRI 07 OCT 2016


See page 59 for information about Cruise Connections.

SUPPLEMENTS


TranzAlpine Train Add £139M

M

From


Bay of Islands

Auckland

Blenheim


Dunedin

Queenstown

Wanaka

Napier

KaikouraGreymouth

Guaranteed DeparturesSUMMER 2015/16 from £3,156*pp twin share


TUE 06 OCT 2015 FRI 23 OCT 2015

TUE 20 OCT 2015 FRI 06 NOV 2015

TUE 03 NOV 2015 FRI 20 NOV 2015

TUE 17 NOV 2015 FRI 04 DEC 2015

TUE 15 DEC 2015 FRI 01 JAN 2016

TUE 22 DEC 2015 FRI 08 JAN 2016

TUE 05 JAN 2016 FRI 22 JAN 2016

TUE 19 JAN 2016 FRI 05 FEB 2016

TUE 02 FEB 2016 FRI 19 FEB 2016

TUE 16 FEB 2016 FRI 04 MAR 2016

TUE 23 FEB 2016 FRI 11 MAR 2016

TUE 01 MAR 2016 FRI 18 MAR 2016

TUE 15 MAR 2016 FRI 01 APR 2016

TUE 29 MAR 2016 FRI 15 APR 2016

TUE 19 APR 2016 FRI 06 MAY 2016

Tour Code: A

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

Brief stop

TranzAlpine Train Add-OnM

Earlybird discount*


1

2

1

2

1

2

1

1

1

2

2

1

Rotorua

Lake Taupo

Wellington

Masterton

Omarama

Mt Cook

Milford Sound

Te Anau

M

Christmas Tours!Enjoy Christmas with a difference and celebrate with new found friends in the southern hemisphere. Be sure to consider our tours with special departures that take in the festive season with no additional fees.

Book now for a holiday of a lifetime!

40


Kirra Tours | 17 Day Classic New Zealand Explorer

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport• Interislander Ferry Crossing•New Zealand Airport transfers• TranzAlpine Train Journey•Coastal Pacific Train Journey


•Milford Sound Cruise• TranzAlpine Train Journey•Coastal Pacific Train Journey•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi

& Concert•Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Christchurch, Wellington & Auckland Tours

• Larnach Castle Guided Tour• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown• Yealands Estate Winery Tour

& Tasting• Interislander Ferry Crossing•Agrodome Sheep Show• Te Puia Thermal Reserve• Entry to Sky Tower• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds•Hole in the Rock Cruise• Entry to Kauri Museum

7HIGHLIGHTS

• Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd

•Brief tour of Dunedin• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Lake Wanaka• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery•Brief tour of Blenheim• Te Papa Museum• Visit to Huka Falls•Brief Rotorua Tour•Wonderful Bay Of Islands

Day 1 Arrive ChristchurchWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel.


Day 2 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaA brief tour of Christchurch and its surrounds before travelling across the Canterbury Plains into MacKenzie Country. View the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial at Lake Tekapo. The memorial stands to honour the border collies that were brought to New Zealand with Scottish Shepherds in the 19th century, as the high country area surrounding Lake Tekapo could not have been farmed without the assistance of these hard working dogs, known as the ‘Canine Scots’. Afterwards, continue to Mt Cook National Park where you can admire the majesty of New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mt Cook, before travelling on to Omarama. (B, D)


Day 3 Omarama/DunedinPass large hydro lakes as you travel down the Waitaki Valley to Oamaru and Dunedin, the “Scottish” city. Upon arrival, a city tour of Dunedin including the world’s steepest residential street, Dunedin University, the first Church, Speight’s Brewery, Catholic Cathedral and more before the afternoon is at your leisure. Your Coach Captain will be able to assist in arranging your afternoon activities. We recommend you visit the Octagon in the city centre, or why not take a tour of the famous Speight’s Brewery. (B, D)


Day 4 Dunedin/Te AnauToday visit historic Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Learn about its tragic and mysterious history as well as enjoying the truly spectacular views across the Otago Peninsula and coast. Heading inland, you will cross rich farmlands to the agricultural towns of Gore and Lumsden before arriving at Lake Te Anau. (B, D)

h Distinction Luxmore Hotel, 1 night

Day 5 Te Anau/Milford Sound/QueenstownFollow the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys, pass through the Homer Tunnel and descend into the Cleddau Canyon to reach majestic Milford Sound, dominated by Mitre Peak. A launch cruise takes you to the open sea and the Bowen and Stirling Falls. Return to Te Anau and on to Mossburn, then skirt the shores of Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the Skyline Restaurant where both the dining and the views are unsurpassed. (B, D)


Day 6 QueenstownA day to explore the many delights of this stunning alpine resort. Try the world renowned Shotover Jet, an excursion to Skippers Canyon in search of gold or a steamer cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station. You may even wish to travel by Double Decker Bus to quaint Arrowtown or even attempt a bungy jump. Your Kirra Tours Coach Captainwill be more than happy to assist in booking any optional sightseeing. Alternatively, relax and explore Queenstown’s many boutiques and galleries. (B, D)

Day 7 Queenstown/Haast Pass/ Franz JosefPass picturesque Lake Hayes, on to an area steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold mining era, and then to Lake Wanaka. Pass Lake Hawea and the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora, cross the Haast Pass into the Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Drive north along the coast to the magnificent Glacier region. (B, D)


Day 8 Franz Josef/Greymouth/ChristchurchSnowcapped Southern Alps dominate the skyline as you pass dense bush, tiny landlocked lakes and small pockets of farmland. Visit a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and is seen as a sign of status and power. It is a hard, highly valued stone found only on the south island. It was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See how jewellery is created out of this amazing green stone. Join the TranzAlpine train in Greymouth and travel through rainforests to Otira, pass the snowcapped peaks of the Southern Alps, the rugged Gorges of the Waimakariri River and cross the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B, D)


Day 9 Christchurch/Kaikoura/BlenheimJoin the Coastal Pacific Train for a kaleidoscope of scenery across fertile Canterbury farmland through the Hundalee Ranges. Follow the Pacific coastline with the Kaikoura Mountains forming a rugged backdrop to the west. Arrive in Kaikoura mid morning with time to explore before continuing on to Blenheim. A short tourof the area includes a visit to Yealands Estate Winery. Enjoy a hosted tour of the winery, learn about and taste from the range of famous local wines (purchase if you wish). (B, D)


Day 10 Blenheim/Picton/WellingtonToday we travel to Picton, nestled on the shores of the Marlborough Sounds, to board the Interislander

17 DayClassic

New ZealandExplorer

41

£3,015*

SUPPLEMENTS



Auckland £64

Christchurch £54*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Auckland & Sudima Christchurch).

Kirra Tours | 17 Day Classic New Zealand Explorer

Ferry. Sail through picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, across Cook Strait and into Wellington Harbour for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Capital City. A city tour will incorporate the summit of Mt Victoria for panoramic views of the city and harbour, the Houses of Parliament and the distinctive ‘Beehive’, WellingtonCathedral, city centre and Oriental Bay. Also explore the city yourself. Don’t miss Te Papa, the “Museum of New Zealand”, situated on Wellington’s waterfront, or take a ride on the famous Cable Car. (B, D)


Day 11 Wellington/Taupo/RotoruaDrive to Paekakariki with views of Kapiti Island and on a clear day, the South Island. Cross rolling farmland to the central North Island National Park, dominated by the volcanic cone of Mt Ruapehu. Follow the Desert Road to Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, which is famous for trout fishing. Stop at Huka Falls and skirt past massive pine forests to reach Rotorua, centre of Maori culture in New Zealand and well known for it’s geysers, hot mud pools and steaming craters. (B, D)


Day 12 RotoruaA sightseeing tour visits the Agrodome Sheep show and then you will visit Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve, with boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. Time for optional activities this afternoon before a Maori Hangi (meal) with a selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus conventional dishes, followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirringhaka. (B, D)

Day 13 Rotorua/Matamata/AucklandCross the Mamaku Ranges to the Waikato region, noted for dairy farming and world famous horse studs. At Matamata, a guide will escort your group on a Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour. Take a drive through a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Range whilst learning about and seeing how the Hobbiton Set was created. Travel north to reach Auckland. A city tour will visit the summit of Sky Tower, at 328m the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for superb city and harbour views, the downtown area and Waterfront Drive. (B, D)


Day 14 Auckland/Bay of IslandsDrive north to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Meet your local Maori guide who will provide an insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. Here you will visit the Waitangi Treaty House, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed on 6 February, 1840. Take a self-guided tour through the Treaty House, the Maori Meeting

House and war canoe. This afternoon enjoy a launch cruise to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and ‘Hole in the Rock’. (B, D)


Day 15 Bay of IslandsA day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. Your Kirra Tours Coach Captain will happily assist with all details. We highly recommend a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northern most point. At Cape Reinga you view the blending of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean and get an understanding of the Maori myths and legends of the area, go sand boarding down the giant sand dunes and travel along Ninety Mile Beach, the highway of the north. (B, D)

Day 16 Bay of Islands/AucklandFrom Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth. Travel via Matakohe, home of the award winning Kauri Museum. Learn about the Kauri tree and the fascinating story of the pioneering days through the use of kauri timber and kauri gum as well as viewing the collection of antique kauri furniture and restored machinery. Continuing on your journey, Auckland city and harbour will shortly come into view. (B, D)


Day 17 Auckland/HomeToday it is time to say farewell to your travelling companions. You will be transferred to the Auckland International Airport to join your flight home. (B)



SUN 18 SEP 2016 TUE 04 OCT 2016



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“The Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island is definitely my favourite place. You can really just get away from everything and visit quiet and serene places that are only accessible by boat or helicopter - and with no internet or TV! Absolute heaven!”

Lyn


From


Bay of Islands

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Blenheim


Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Lake Taupo

Kaikoura

Te Anau

Greymouth

Matamata

Omarama



SUN 04 OCT 2015 TUE 20 OCT 2015

SUN 18 OCT 2015 TUE 03 NOV 2015

SUN 01 NOV 2015 TUE 17 NOV 2015

SUN 15 NOV 2015 TUE 01 DEC 2015

SUN 13 DEC 2015 TUE 29 DEC 2015

SUN 20 DEC 2015 TUE 05 JAN 2016

SUN 03 JAN 2016 TUE 19 JAN 2016

SUN 17 JAN 2016 TUE 02 FEB 2016

SUN 14 FEB 2016 TUE 01 MAR 2016

SUN 21 FEB 2016 TUE 08 MAR 2016

SUN 13 MAR 2016 TUE 29 MAR 2016

SUN 27 MAR 2016 TUE 12 APR 2016

SUN 17 APR 2016 TUE 03 MAY 2016

TranzAlpine Train Journey

1

Interislander Ferry

Train Journey


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

rr2

Earlybird discount*


Tour Code: S

Classic Tours

42


Kirra Tours | 14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport• Interislander Ferry Crossing•New Zealand Airport transfers• TranzAlpine Train•Coastal Pacific Train


•Milford Sound Cruise• TranzAlpine Train Journey•Coastal Pacific Train Journey•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi

& Concert•Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING


• Larnach Castle Guided Tour• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown• Yealands Estate Winery Tour

& Tasting• Interislander Ferry Crossing•Agrodome Sheep Show• Te Puia Thermal Reserve• Entry to Sky Tower

7HIGHLIGHTS


•Brief tour of Dunedin• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Lake Wanaka• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery•Brief tour of Blenheim• Te Papa Museum• Visit to Huka Falls•Brief Rotorua Tour



Day 2 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaEnjoy a brief tour of Christchurch and its surrounds this morning before travelling across the Canterbury Plains into MacKenzie Country. View the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial, both overlooking the beautiful waters of Lake Tekapo. The memorial stands to honour the border collies that were brought to New Zealand with Scottish Shepherds in the 19th century, as the high country area surrounding Lake Tekapo could not have been farmed without the assistance of these hard working dogs, known as the ‘Canine Scots’. Afterwards, continue on to Mt Cook National Park where you can admire the majesty of New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mt Cook, before travelling on to Omarama. (B, D)


Day 3 Omarama/DunedinPass large hydro lakes as you travel down the Waitaki Valley to Oamaru and then Dunedin, the “Scottish” city. Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour of Dunedin including the world’s steepest residential street, Dunedin University, the first Church, Speight’s Brewery, Catholic Cathedral and more before the afternoon is at your leisure. Your Coach Captain will be happy to assist in arranging your afternoon activities. We recommend you visit the Octagon in the city centre, or why not take a tour of the famous Speight’s Brewery. (B, D)


Day 4 Dunedin/Te AnauThis morning visit New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle to learn about its tragic and mysterious history, as well as enjoying some truly spectacular views across the Otago Peninsula and coast. Later, leave Dunedin behind and head inland, crossing rich farmlands to the agricultural towns of Gore and Lumsden before arriving at Lake Te Anau. (B, D)


Day 5 Te Anau/Milford Sound/QueenstownFollow the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys, pass through the Homer Tunnel and descend into the Cleddau Canyon to reach majestic Milford Sound, dominated by Mitre Peak. A launch cruise takes you to the open sea and the Bowen and Stirling Falls, and provides truly spectacular views of this mysterious and isolated wonder. Return to Te Anau and on to Mossburn, then skirt the shores of Lake Wakatipu to reach the ever

popular resort town of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the Skyline Restaurant, which can only be reached by Gondola, where both the dining and the views are unsurpassed. (B, D)


Day 6 QueenstownToday is at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax, or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. Try the world famous Shotover Jet, or perhaps a tour to Skippers Canyon for history and dramatic scenery. Alternatively, spend your day strolling along the lake and exploring the many cafes and galleries this resort town has to offer. (B, D)

Day 7 Queenstown/Haast Pass/Franz JosefPass picturesque Lake Hayes, on to an area steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold mining era, and then to Lake Wanaka. Pass Lake Hawea and the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora, cross the Haast Pass into the Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Drive north along the coast to the magnificent Glacier region. (B, D)


Day 8 Franz Josef/Greymouth/ChristchurchSnowcapped Southern Alps dominate the skyline as you pass dense bush, tiny landlocked lakes and small pockets of farmland. Visit a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and is seen as a sign of status and power. It is a hard, highly valued stone found only on the South Island. It was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See how beautiful jewellery is created out of this amazing green stone. Afterwards join the TranzAlpine Train in Greymouth for your return trip to Christchurch. Frequently described as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine Train takes you through rainforests to Otira, the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps, the rugged gorges of the Waimakariri River and across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. Travelling across the entire width of the South Island from west to east, the train ascends up through the Southern Alps to the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass. The journey is 223 kilometres long and takes around four and a half hours. (B,D)


Day 9 Christchurch/Kaikoura/BlenheimJoin the Coastal Pacific Train for a kaleidoscope of scenery across fertile Canterbury farmland through the Hundalee Ranges. Follow the Pacific coastline with the Kaikoura Mountains forming a rugged backdrop to

14 DayClassic

Scenic Explorer

43

£2,525*

SUPPLEMENTS



Christchurch £54

Auckland £64*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Sudima Christchurch & Rydges Auckland).

Kirra Tours | 14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer

the west. Arrive in Kaikoura mid morning with time to explore before continuing on to Blenheim. A short tour of the area includes a visit to Yealands Estate Winery. Enjoy a hosted tour of the winery, learn about and taste from the range of famous local wines (purchase if you wish). (B, D)


Day 10 Blenheim/Picton/WellingtonDrive to Picton, nestled on the shores of the Marlborough Sounds, to board the Interislander Ferry. Sail through picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, across Cook Strait and into Wellington Harbour for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Capital City. A city tour will incorporate the summit of Mount Victoria where you can enjoy a panoramic overview of the harbour, the city centre and the nearby suburbs. The tour also visits the Houses of Parliament and the distinctive ‘Beehive’, Wellington Cathedral, city centre and Oriental Bay. With some free time this afternoon you may like to visit Te Papa Museum, or take a ride on the famous Cable Car. (B, D)


Day 11 Wellington/Taupo/RotoruaDrive to Paekakariki with views of Kapiti Island and on a clear day, the South Island. Cross rolling farmland to the Central North Island National Park, dominated by the volcanic cone of Mt Ruapehu. Follow the Desert Road to Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, which is famous for trout fishing. Stop at Huka Falls and skirt past massive pine forests to reach Rotorua, the centre of Maori culture. (B, D)


Day 12 RotoruaA sightseeing tour visits the Agrodome Sheep Show and then Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve, with boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. Time for optional activities this afternoon before a Maori hangi (meal) with a selection of traditionally prepared meats and vegetables plus conventional dishes, followed by a concert featuring Maori songs, chants and the stirringhaka. (B, D)

Day 13 Rotorua/Matamata/AucklandCross the Mamaku Ranges to the Waikato region, noted for dairy farming and world famous horse studs. At Matamata, a guide will escort your group on a Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour where you can explore ‘Middle-earth’ and see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire. Take a drive through a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Range whilst learning about and seeing how the Hobbiton Set was created. Afterwards, travel north to reach Auckland. A city tour will visit the summit of

Sky Tower, which stands at 328m tall and is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for superb city and harbour views, the downtown area and Waterfront Drive. (B, D)


Day 14 Auckland/HomeYou will be transferred to Auckland International Airport to join your flight home. (B)



SUN 18 SEP 2016 SAT 01 OCT 2016



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“I enjoyed my tour very much. I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to go back and do the North Island of New Zealand with Kirra. Thank you so very much!”

Melita, Australia


From


Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Blenheim


Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Lake Taupo

Kaikoura

Te Anau

Greymouth

Matamata

Omarama



SUN 04 OCT 2015 SAT 17 OCT 2015

SUN 18 OCT 2015 SAT 31 OCT 2015

SUN 01 NOV 2015 SAT 14 NOV 2015

SUN 15 NOV 2015 SAT 28 NOV 2015

SUN 13 DEC 2015 SAT 26 DEC 2015

SUN 20 DEC 2015 SAT 02 JAN 2016

SUN 03 JAN 2016 SAT 16 JAN 2016

SUN 17 JAN 2016 SAT 30 JAN 2016

SUN 14 FEB 2016 SAT 27 FEB 2016

SUN 21 FEB 2016 SAT 05 MAR 2016

SUN 13 MAR 2016 SAT 26 MAR 2016

SUN 27 MAR 2016 SAT 09 APR 2016

SUN 17 APR 2016 SAT 30 APR 2016

Tour Code: J

The Green Dragon Inn, Hobbiton

2

rr

Interislander Ferry

Train Journey


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

Earlybird discount*


Explore some more

Why not arrive early into New Zealand to explore the magnificent Bay of Islands?We recommend staying an extra three nights to discover New Zealand’s Northland:

Option 1Extend your coach tour from the 14 Day Classic Scenic Explorer to the 17 Day Classic New Zealand Explorer so you won’t miss out on the spectacular Bay of Islands with your new found friends. (Refer to page 40 for further details on the 17 Day tour)

Option 2Hire a car and explore both the West & East Coast of the Northland region at your own pace. Visit historical places such as Russell, New Zealand’s original capital city. Learn about the history of New Zealand with a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and see the huge Kauri Trees at Waipoua forest.


Classic Tours

44


Kirra Tours | 12 Day Classic Southern Discovery

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL




ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Interislander Ferry Crossing• The Olde Malthouse Blenheim

tasting & dinner•Christchurch City Tour• International Antarctic Centre• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Larnach Castle Guided Tour•Walter Peak Cruise & Dinner

7HIGHLIGHTS

• Te Papa Museum•Brief tour of Blenheim• Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good

Shepherd•Brief tour of Dunedin• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Lake Wanaka• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery

Day 1 Arrive WellingtonWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.


Day 2 Wellington/Picton/BlenheimEnjoy some free time this morning to either relax or make the most of Wellington’s endless sights. Join the afternoon Interislander Ferry, which has been described as one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Enjoy fantastic views of Wellington and its hillside suburbs and cross the Cook Strait into the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound and the South Island. Upon arrival into Picton, continue south to Blenheim where you will be dining this evening at The Olde Malthouse. Here you will take a guided tour to discover the rich and fascinating history of this 1858 building, as well as enjoying a tasting of Marlborough wines and Renaissance Craft beers. (B, D)


Day 3 Blenheim/Kaikoura/ChristchurchThis morning, you will pass Lake Grassmere then follow the coastline down to Kaikoura, an area noted for whale watching. Continue on over the Hundalee Ranges and onto the Canterbury Plains before reaching Christchurch. Here you will visit the International Antarctic Centre, which doubles as the base for New Zealand, the United States and Italy’s Antarctic research missions. The attraction offers a fun, exciting and interactive experience of the Great White South. See live Little Blue Penguins or take a ride on a genuine Antarctic vehicle, the Hagglund. This outdoor adventure ride is the only one of its type in the world and showcases the demanding capabilities of this Antarctic workhorse. Afterwards, enjoy a brief tour of Christchurch and its surrounds. (B, D)


Day 4 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaCross the broad Canterbury Plains with the Southern Alps to the west. Enter the foothills near Geraldine to the barren MacKenzie Country. Stop to view the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial overlooking Lake Tekapo. The memorial stands to honour the border collies that were brought to New Zealand with Scottish Shepherds in the 19th century, as the high country area surrounding Lake Tekapo could not have been farmed without the assistance of these hard working dogs, known as the ‘Canine Scots’. Afterwards visit Mt Cook National Park, where New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mt Cook, stands 3,724 metres high and towers over the Mackenzie area. The national park provides a beautiful and dramatic backdrop for your visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, which stands as a tribute to the man described as one of the world’s greatest explorers. Departing

the Mount Cook National Park, travel around Lake Pukaki to Twizel and Omarama. (B,D)


Day 5 Omarama/DunedinAn early arrival into Dunedin allows the choice of excellent optional activities; your Coach Captain will be able to assist with these. We recommend you visit the Octagon in the city centre, where an eight sided plaza is bisected by the city’s main downtown street, George Street. Here you may choose to visit the Dunedin Public Library and Art Gallery, St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, or stop to enjoy a coffee at one of the various cafes. Alternatively, you may like to take a tour of the famous Speight’s Brewery. The tour is an award-winning interactive and informative guided tour through a historic working brewery, which has been producing Speight’s legendary ales since 1876. This evening prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony complete with piper, address to the Haggis and gift. (B, D)


Day 6 Dunedin/Te AnauThis morning, enjoy a visit to Larnach Castle, where you will learn about its exciting, sometimes scandalous and tragic history. The castle is the home of the Barker family, who have spent over forty years lovingly restoring the building and recreating the beauty of the 14 hectares of gardens and grounds. On completion of your tour, set off across rich farmlands to the agricultural towns of Gore and Lumsden before arriving at the shores of Lake Te Anau - the gateway to the magnificent Milford Sound. (B, D)


Day 7 Milford Sound Day TripToday enjoy a cruise on the spectacular Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most loved visitor attraction. Follow the Hollyford Valley where the Beech forests reach to the roads edge and snow capped peaks tower above. Descend into the Cleddau Canyon to Milford Sound, the world renowned natural wonder, dominated by Mitre Peak. Luxuriant rainforest clings to sheer rock walls and waterfalls tumble hundreds of meters to the sea below. A launch cruise takes you to the open sea and shows such highlights as the Bowen and Stirling Falls. Don’t forget to keep a look out for wildlife - like seals basking on the rocks or even playful dolphins! If time and weather permits, walk into the rainforest to visit The Chasm, a spectacular waterfall, then pause at the Homer Tunnel. On completion of your tour you will return to Te Anau. (B, D)

Day 8 Te Anau/QueenstownThis morning, depart Te Anau and drive north to picturesque Queenstown. Cruise across the lake aboard the vintage 100 year old steamship, the TSS

12 DayClassicSouthernDiscovery

45

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2

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1

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2

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£1,999*

Kirra Tours | 12 Day Classic Southern Discovery

Earnslaw, also known as the ‘Lady of the Lake’. Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is named after the highest peak in the region, Mount Earnslaw. On the journey across the lake take in some of Lake Wakatipu’s most beautiful alpine scenery. Enjoy a gourmet BBQ buffet dinner in the Colonial Homestead, before making the return trip back across the lake to Queenstown. (B, D)


Day 9 QueenstownToday is at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax, or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. We recommend the world famous Shotover Jet boat ride, or a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline complex high above Queenstown on Bob’s Peak. Alternatively, you may like to take a tour to the gold mining area of Skippers Canyon or choose to browse the many shops and galleries in the town centre. (B, D)

Day 10 Queenstown/Haast Pass/Franz JosefPass picturesque Lake Hayes on to an area steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold-mining era, to Lake Wanaka, a picture postcard resort on the lakes edge with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Pass Lake Hawea and the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora into Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Drive north along the coast to the glacier region. (B, D)


Day 11 Franz Josef/ChristchurchHeading north along New Zealand’s wild West Coast, enjoy spectacular scenery. Pay a visit to a Pounamu (also known as Greenstone or Jade) factory. Pounamu is considered a treasure in Maori culture and is seen as a sign of status and power. It is a hard, highly valued stone found only on the South Island. It was often given as gifts to seal important agreements. See beautiful jewellery is created out of this amazing green stone. Cross the Otira Gorge and Arthur’s Pass to the Canterbury Plains and into Christchurch. (B, D)




SUPPLEMENTS


TranzAlpine Train Add £139


Wellington £52

Christchurch £54*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Ibis Wellington & Sudima Christchurch).



MON 16 MAY 2016 FRI 27 MAY 2016

MON 29 AUG 2016 FRI 09 SEP 2016

MON 26 SEP 2016 FRI 07 OCT 2016



M

M

From


Wellington


Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Kaikoura

Omarama

Te Anau

Greymouth

Blenheim



MON 12 OCT 2015 FRI 23 OCT 2015

MON 26 OCT 2015 FRI 06 NOV 2015

MON 09 NOV 2015 FRI 20 NOV 2015

MON 23 NOV 2015 FRI 04 DEC 2015

MON 21 DEC 2015 FRI 01 JAN 2016

MON 28 DEC 2015 FRI 08 JAN 2016

MON 11 JAN 2016 FRI 22 JAN 2016

MON 25 JAN 2016 FRI 05 FEB 2016

MON 08 FEB 2016 FRI 19 FEB 2016

MON 22 FEB 2016 FRI 04 MAR 2016

MON 29 FEB 2016 FRI 11 MAR 2016

MON 07 MAR 2016 FRI 18 MAR 2016

MON 21 MAR 2016 FRI 01 APR 2016

MON 04 APR 2016 FRI 15 APR 2016

MON 25 APR 2016 FRI 06 MAY 2016

Tour Code: V

Milford Sound

Interislander Ferry


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

M


Explore some more

Why not arrive early into New Zealand and explore the North Island? We recommend you stay four days and take the time to discover New Zealand’s culture and heritage:

Day 1 Arrive AucklandArrive into Auckland and pick up a hire car for your journey south. Tonight, stay in town and explore the night life at the Viaduct.

Day 2 Discover Matamata/RotoruaToday head south over the Bombay Hills en route to Hobbiton for a movie set tour before continuing onwards to the geothermal capital of Rotorua. Tonight we recommend you experience a traditional Maori hangi & concert.

Day 3 Explore RotoruaThere is so much to see and do when in Rotorua, from soaking in geothermal hot springs to learning about the local Maori history. The choice is yours.

Day 4 Discover WellingtonHeading south, pass Lake Taupo before following the Desert Highway where you will see the magnificent Mt Ruapehu. Visit the quaint towns of the local wine regions on your way to Wellington, where you can stop and taste some of New Zealand’s finest wines.


Earlybird discount*


Christmas Tours!Be sure to consider our tours with special departures that take in the festive season with no additional fees.

Book now for a holiday of a lifetime!

Classic Tours

46



Day 2 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaThis morning, join your fellow travellers and meet your Coach Captain before departing. Cross the Canterbury Plains and view the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial on your arrival into MacKenzie Country. Visit Mt Cook National Park and pay a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre before travelling to Omarama. (B, D)


Day 3 Omarama/DunedinAn early arrival into Dunedin allows you the choice of excellent optional activities. This evening prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony. (B, D)


Day 4 Dunedin/Te AnauVisit historic Larnach Castle on the Otago Peninsula before setting off to the towns of Gore and Lumsden and arriving at the shores of Lake Te Anau. (B, D)


Day 5 Milford Sound Day TripToday enjoy a launch cruise in spectacular Milford Sound that takes you to the open sea and shows such highlights as the Bowen and Stirling Falls. If time and weather permits, walk into the rainforest to visit The Chasm, a spectacular waterfall, and pause at the Homer Tunnel. (B, D)

Day 6 Te Anau/QueenstownThis morning, drive north to Kingston and around the shores of Lake Wakatipu to picturesque Queenstown. This evening, cruise across the lake aboard the steamship TSS Earnslaw, the ‘Lady of the Lake’, for dinner in the Colonel’s Homestead at Walter Peak High Country Farm. (B, D)


Day 7 QueenstownA day to explore this alpine resort at your leisure. Your Coach Captain can assist with any optional activities you would like to do. (B, D)

Day 8 Queenstown/Haast Pass/ Franz JosefPass Lake Hayes on to an area steeped in history relating to early settlement and the gold-mining era, to Lake Wanaka. Pass Lake Hawea to Makarora into Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Drive north along the coast to the glacier region. (B, D)


Day 9 Franz Josef/ChristchurchHead north along the coast to visit a Greenstone (Jade) gallery. Cross the Otira Gorge and Arthur’s Pass to the Canterbury Plains and into Christchurch. (B,D)



Day 10 Christchurch/HomeToday you will be transferred to Christchurch Airport to join your flight home. (B)


Kirra Tours | 10 Day Classic Southern Panorama

10 Day 9 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL




ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre• Scottish Haggis Ceremony• Larnach Castle Guided Tour•Walter Peak Cruise & Dinner

7HIGHLIGHTS


•Brief tour of Dunedin• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Lake Wanaka• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery

£1,615*

Ult imate Tours

1

2

1

2

1

Your Tour ItineraryClassic Tours

SUPPLEMENTS


TranzAlpine Train Add £139


Christchurch £54*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Sudima Christchurch).



WED 18 MAY 2016 FRI 27 MAY 2016

WED 31 AUG 2016 FRI 09 SEP 2016

WED 28 SEP 2016 FRI 07 OCT 2016



M

M

ClassicSouthernPanorama

From



Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Omarama

Te Anau

Greymouth



WED 14 OCT 2015 FRI 23 OCT 2015

WED 28 OCT 2015 FRI 06 NOV 2015

WED 11 NOV 2015 FRI 20 NOV 2015

WED 25 NOV 2015 FRI 04 DEC 2015

WED 23 DEC 2015 FRI 01 JAN 2016

WED 30 DEC 2015 FRI 08 JAN 2016

WED 13 JAN 2016 FRI 22 JAN 2016

WED 27 JAN 2016 FRI 05 FEB 2016

WED 10 FEB 2016 FRI 19 FEB 2016

WED 24 FEB 2016 FRI 04 MAR 2016

WED 02 MAR 2016 FRI 11 MAR 2016

WED 09 MAR 2016 FRI 18 MAR 2016

WED 23 MAR 2016 FRI 01 APR 2016

WED 06 APR 2016 FRI 15 APR 2016

WED 27 APR 2016 FRI 06 MAY 2016

Tour Code: L

2

Brief stop


2 Overnights

M


47



Day 2 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaA brief tour of Christchurch and its surrounds before travelling across the Canterbury Plains into MacKenzie Country. View the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial at Lake Tekapo, before continuing to Mt Cook National Park. Admire the majesty of Mt Cook before travelling to Omarama. (B, D)


Day 3 Omarama/DunedinTravel down the Waitaki Valley to Oamaru and Dunedin, the ‘Scottish’ city. Upon arrival, a city tour including the world’s steepest street, Dunedin University, Speight’s Brewery and more before the afternoon is at your leisure. Your Coach Captain will be able to assist in arranging your afternoon activities. (B, D)


Day 4 Dunedin/Te AnauThis morning, visit Larnach Castle for spectacular views across the Otago Peninsula. Heading inland you cross rich farmlands to the agricultural towns of Gore and Lumsden before arriving at Lake Te Anau. (B, D)


Day 5 Te Anau/Milford Sound/QueenstownPass through the Homer Tunnel and descend into the Cleddau Canyon to reach majestic Milford Sound. A cruise takes you to the open sea and the Bowen and Stirling Falls. Return to Te Anau and then skirt the shores of Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the Skyline Restaurant. (B, D)


Day 6 QueenstownToday is at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back and relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities. (B, D)

Day 7 Queenstown/Haast Pass/ Franz JosefPass picturesque Lake Hayes, on to an area steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold-mining era and then to Lake Wanaka. Cross the Haast Pass into the Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Continue driving north along the coast to the magnificent Glacier region. (B, D)


Day 8 Franz Josef/Greymouth/ChristchurchVisit a Greenstone (Jade) Gallery before joining the TranzAlpine train in Greymouth, travelling through rainforests to Otira, past the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps, the rugged Gorges of the Waimakariri River and across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B, D)


Day 9 Christchurch/HomeYou will be transferred to Christchurch Airport to join your flight home. (B)


9 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL

•Premier Coach transport•New Zealand Airport transfers• TranzAlpine Train Journey


•Milford Sound Cruise• TranzAlpine Train Journey

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Christchurch City Tour• Larnach Castle Guided Tour• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown

7HIGHLIGHTS


•Brief tour of Dunedin• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu•Brief tour of Lake Wanaka• Visit to Greenstone (Jade) Gallery

£1,615* £1,515*

1

2

1

1

1

Your Tour Itinerary

SUPPLEMENTS



Christchurch £54*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Sudima Christchurch).



SUN 18 SEP 2016 MON 26 SEP 2016



Kirra Tours | 9 Day Classic TranzAlpine

ClassicTranzAlpine

From



Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Omarama

Te Anau

Greymouth



SUN 04 OCT 2015 MON 12 OCT 2015

SUN 18 OCT 2015 MON 26 OCT 2015

SUN 01 NOV 2015 MON 09 NOV 2015

SUN 15 NOV 2015 MON 23 NOV 2015

SUN 13 DEC 2015 MON 21 DEC 2015

SUN 20 DEC 2015 MON 28 DEC 2015

SUN 03 JAN 2016 MON 11 JAN 2016

SUN 17 JAN 2016 MON 25 JAN 2016

SUN 14 FEB 2016 MON 22 FEB 2016

SUN 21 FEB 2016 MON 29 FEB 2016

SUN 13 MAR 2016 MON 21 MAR 2016

SUN 27 MAR 2016 MON 04 APR 2016

SUN 17 APR 2016 MON 25 APR 2016

Tour Code: G

Train Journey


r

Overnights2

Brief stop

r2

Earlybird discount*


Classic Tours

48



Day 2 Auckland/Bay of IslandsCross Auckland’s distinctive Harbour Bridge to drive north to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Here you will meet a local Maori guide, a descendant of the original settlers to the region, who will provide an insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. Enjoy a launch cruise to the Cape Brett Lighthouse and famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, in the Bay of Islands. (B, D)


Day 3 Bay of IslandsToday is at your leisure, take the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. Why not try a full day tour to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northern most point. Alternatively, explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first settlement. (B, D)

Day 4 Bay of Islands/RotoruaToday travel south to Auckland and pay a visit to the summit of Sky Tower, at 328m the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere, for panoramic views across the city and its two harbours. Continuing on your journey, approach the Bombay Hills which serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region, before crossing the bush clad Mamaku Ranges to Rotorua, known as the centre of Maori culture in New Zealand. (B, D)


Day 5 RotoruaToday, you’ll pay a visit to the Agrodome to see a display featuring various sheep breeds and sheep shearing. Explore Rainbow Springs Wildlife Park, home to a variety of New Zealand’s native birds and animals including the Kiwi. The Skyline Gondola offers superb views and for a little excitement try a Luge ride, with time this afternoon for optional activities. This evening enjoy a traditional Maori hangi (meal) and concert featuring Maori songs and the stirring haka. (B, D)

Day 6 Rotorua/Napier/MastertonDeparting Rotorua, visit Huka Falls where the Waikato River pours through a narrow chasm and then pause at Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Continue to the Hawke’s Bay region, known for its award winning wines, and Napier, known as the Art Deco capital of the world. Enjoy an afternoon stop at Mangatainoka, home to Tui Brewery, before continuing on to Masterton for the night. (B, D)

h Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park, 1 night

Day 7 Masterton/WellingtonToday travel south over the Rimutaka ranges into the Capital city, Wellington. A city tour includes the summit of Mount Victoria where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the harbour and city centre. The tour also visits the Houses of Parliament and distinctive ‘Beehive’, Wellington Cathedral, the central city and business area and Oriental Bay. (B, D)


Day 8 Wellington/HomeToday is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Wellington Airport to join your flight home. (B)


Kirra Tours | 8 Day Classic Northern Discovery

8 Day 5 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL



•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi & Concert

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Auckland & Wellington Tours• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds•Hole in the Rock Cruise• Entry to Sky Tower•Agrodome Sheep Show•Rainbow Springs Park• Skyline Gondola & Luge Ride• Tui Brewery & Museum

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Wonderful Bay of Islands• Visit to Huka Falls• Visit the Art Deco Capital, Napier• Visit the Wairarapa region• Te Papa Museum

£1,365*

Ult imate Tours

2

1

2

1

1

Your Tour ItineraryClassic Tours

SUPPLEMENTS



Auckland £64

Wellington £52*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Auckland & Ibis Wellington).



TUE 10 MAY 2016 TUE 17 MAY 2016

TUE 23 AUG 2016 TUE 30 AUG 2016

TUE 20 SEP 2016 TUE 27 SEP 2016



ClassicNorthernDiscovery

From


Bay of Islands

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Lake Taupo

Napier

Masterton



TUE 06 OCT 2015 TUE 13 OCT 2015

TUE 20 OCT 2015 TUE 27 OCT 2015

TUE 03 NOV 2015 TUE 10 NOV 2015

TUE 17 NOV 2015 TUE 24 NOV 2015

TUE 15 DEC 2015 TUE 22 DEC 2015

TUE 22 DEC 2015 TUE 29 DEC 2015

TUE 05 JAN 2016 TUE 12 JAN 2016

TUE 19 JAN 2016 TUE 26 JAN 2016

TUE 02 FEB 2016 TUE 09 FEB 2016

TUE 16 FEB 2016 TUE 23 FEB 2016

TUE 23 FEB 2016 TUE 01 MAR 2016

TUE 01 MAR 2016 TUE 08 MAR 2016

TUE 15 MAR 2016 TUE 22 MAR 2016

TUE 29 MAR 2016 TUE 05 APR 2016

TUE 19 APR 2016 TUE 26 APR 2016

Tour Code: P

Brief stop


2 Overnights

49

Day 1 Arrive AucklandWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel. If you arrive early, why not explore Auckland harbour with a walk along the Viaduct. Located in the heart of Auckland City, the Viaduct has over 30 bars and restaurants to choose from in one waterfront destination, making it a superb place to dine or relax and watch the world go by. Alternatively, take a ferry across to Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore and take the time to explore the unique specialty shops, cafes and restaurants.


Day 2 Auckland/Bay of IslandsDrive north to Paihia in the Bay of Islands. Meet your local Maori guide who will provide an insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. A self-guided tour through the Treaty House, the Maori Meeting House and war canoe. This afternoon enjoy a launch cruise which will take you across the Bay to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’. As you travel through the bay, keep an eye out for dolphins as these friendlymammals have been known to tag alongside the cruise. (B, D)


Day 3 Bay of IslandsA day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available, your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. You might like to try a full day tour to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach. Cape Reinga is New Zealand’s northern most point, where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. Ninety Mile Beach is an exhilarating and incredible beach that includes a combination of sand dunes, giant Kauri trees, quicksand streams and spectacular scenery. Alternatively, you may like to explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first settlement and visit its original Church, Mission House and Museum. (B, D)

Day 4 Bay of Islands/AucklandReturning to Paihia, board your Coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth. Travel via Matakohe, home of the award-winning Kauri Museum. Here you can learn about the Kauri tree and the fascinating story of the pioneering days through the use of kauri timber and kauri gum as well as viewing displays and galleries and the collection of antique kauri furniture and restored machinery. Continuing on your journey, Auckland city and harbour will shortly come into view. (B, D)


Day 5 Auckland/HomeIt is time to say farewell to your new friends and travelling companions. You will be transferred to Auckland Airport to join your flight home. (B)


5 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL


ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds•Hole in the Rock Cruise• Entry to Kauri Museum

7HIGHLIGHTS

•Wonderful Bay of Islands•Parry Kauri Park, Warkworth•Matakohe

£1,365* £625*Your Tour Itinerary

SUPPLEMENTS



Auckland £64*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Rydges Hotel Auckland).

WINTER 2016 from £625*pp twin share


FRI 30 SEP 2016 TUE 04 OCT 2016



Kirra Tours | 5 Day Classic Bay of Islands

“Before travelling to New Zealand, make sure you have plenty of space on your camera phone for taking lots of photos or if you are using a digital camera be sure to bring a spare memory card. There are so many amazing photo opportunities in New Zealand, so it’s a good idea to always have your camera at the ready!”

Tracey

Kirra Staff Tips

ClassicBay of Islands

From


Bay of Islands

Auckland

MatakoheWhangarei

Guaranteed DeparturesSUMMER 2015/16 from £725*pp twin share


FRI 02 OCT 2015 TUE 06 OCT 2015

FRI 16 OCT 2015 TUE 20 OCT 2015

FRI 30 OCT 2015 TUE 03 NOV 2015

FRI 13 NOV 2015 TUE 17 NOV 2015

FRI 27 NOV 2015 TUE 01 DEC 2015

FRI 25 DEC 2015 TUE 29 DEC 2015

FRI 01 JAN 2016 TUE 05 JAN 2016

FRI 15 JAN 2016 TUE 19 JAN 2016

FRI 29 JAN 2016 TUE 02 FEB 2016

FRI 26 FEB 2016 TUE 01 MAR 2016

FRI 04 MAR 2016 TUE 08 MAR 2016

FRI 25 MAR 2016 TUE 29 MAR 2016

FRI 08 APR 2016 TUE 12 APR 2016

FRI 29 APR 2016 TUE 03 MAY 2016

Tour Code: T

Brief stop


2 Overnights

2

2

Earlybird discount*


Classic Tours

50

valuefree-time

with more

A greatintroduction to

& excellentfor MONEY.

HighlightsTours

51

Freedom to explore

Mt Cook National Park

52


Kirra Tours | 17 Day Highlights of New Zealand

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION

• 16 nights in 3-3.5 star centrally located hotels

\DINING


bTRAVEL



•Milford Sound Cruise•Authentic Maori Village, Hangi

& Concert•Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tour

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING


• Entry to Larnach Castle• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown• Interislander Ferry Crossing• Entry to Te Puia Thermal Reserve•Good George Brewery Tour

& Dinner, Hamilton• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds• Entry to Kauri Museum

7HIGHLIGHTS


• View Moeraki Boulders• Explore Te Anau•Day at leisure in Queenstown• Explore Lake Wakatipu• Visit the historic gold-mining town

of Arrowtown• Explore Lake Wanaka• Fox Glacier• Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks• Te Papa Museum• Visit Huka Falls & Lake Taupo• Free time in Rotorua• Tongariro National Park• Explore Hamilton•Day at leisure in Paihia

Day 1 Arrive ChristchurchWelcome to New Zealand. A representative of Kirra Tours will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel.

h Quality Hotel Elms, 1 night

Day 2 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaBefore departing Christchurch, enjoy a city sights tour then travel across the Canterbury Plains into MacKenzie Country. View the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial at Lake Tekapo. The memorial stands to honour the border collies that were brought to New Zealand with Scottish Shepherds in the 19th century, as the high country area surrounding Lake Tekapo could not have been farmed without the assistance of these hard working dogs, known as the ‘Canine Scots’. Afterwards, continue on to Mt Cook National Park and then Omarama. (B)

h Country Time Hotel, 1 night

Day 3 Omarama/DunedinTravel down the Waitaki Valley to Oamaru and Dunedin. Enjoy the many optional activities available, your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. Why not take a tour of the famous Speight’s Brewery and learn the processes and what goes into a world class beer, or play a round of golf at St Clair. The course offers spectacular views of the city, its beaches and harbour and the rugged southern coastline. (B)


Day 4 Dunedin/Te AnauThis morning, enjoy a visit to Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Learn about its exciting, sometimes scandalous and tragic history. The castle is the home of the Barker family, who have spent over forty years lovingly restoring the building and recreating the beauty of the 14 hectares of gardens and grounds. Afterwards, depart Dunedin and cross farmlands en route to Gore and Lumsden. Visit Lake Manapouri (time and weather permitting) before arriving at Lake Te Anau. (B)

h Kingsgate Te Anau, 1 night

Day 5 Te Anau/Milford Sound/QueenstownFollow the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys and pass through the Homer Tunnel before descending into Milford Sound. Setting sail enjoy a cruise on the pristine sound as it takes you to the Bowen and Stirling Falls. Returning to your coach, you set off for Queenstown, travelling along the outskirts of Lake Wakatipu before you arrive. Dinner tonight is at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant with breathtaking views of Queenstown and the Remarkables mountain range. (B, D)

h Tanoa Aspen Hotel, 2 nights

Day 6 QueenstownToday is a chance to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. Why not take a cruise on the Lady of the Lake, TSS Earnslaw, as she travels to Walter Peak Farm station with options for lunch or dinner or explore the local wineries in the region with an Appellations Wine Tour. Tonight, take the opportunity to explore the many restaurants and bars Queenstown is famous for. (B)

Day 7 Queenstown/WanakaHead back in time as you travel through areas steeped in fascinating history relating to early settlement and the gold mining era. First stop Arrowtown, then travel past picturesque Lake Hayes before arriving at Lake Wanaka, a picture postcard resort on the lakes edge with a spectacular mountain backdrop. This afternoon is at your leisure and we recommend if the weather is good, you take a cruise on the lake or enjoy a walk around. (B)

h Wanaka Hotel, 1 night

Day 8 Wanaka/Fox GlacierToday takes you to Lake Hawea and the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka to Makarora into Mt Aspiring and Westland National Parks. Drive north along the coast to the glacier region. Upon arrival into Fox Glacier, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy. You may like to take an optional scenic helicopter flight or take a walk to the face of the glacier. Your Coach Captain will happily assist with the details. (B)

h Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, 1 night

Day 9 Fox Glacier/St ArnaudThe journey today travels along the scenic West Coast with a stop at the pancake rocks and blowholes before heading inland through the Buller Gorge. On arrival into St Arnaud, you will be treated to an exclusive guided tour of the region where you will learn of the history that makes this a special spot to spend the night. (B, D)

h Alpine Lodge, 1 night

Day 10 St Arnaud/Picton/WellingtonDrive to Picton to board the Interislander Ferry for the scenic three hour, 92km cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sounds to Wellington, described as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world”. A city tour will incorporate the summit of Mt Victoria, the Houses of Parliament and Beehive, Wellington Cathedral, the city centre and Oriental Bay. This afternoon, there is time to explore for yourself - we recommend you pay a visit to Te Papa, the ‘Museum of New Zealand’. (B)

h Bay Plaza Hotel, 1 night

17 DayHighlights

of New Zealand

53

£2,515*

SUPPLEMENTS



Christchurch £50

Auckland £64

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Quality Hotel Elms Christchurch & Scenic Hotel Auckland).

Kirra Tours | 17 Day Highlights of New Zealand

Day 11 Wellington/Taupo/RotoruaDrive to Paekakariki with views of Kapiti Island and on a clear day, the South Island. Continue through the towns of Levin and Foxton to Bulls, then cross rolling farmland to the Central North Island National Park dominated by the volcanic Mt Ruapehu. Follow the Desert Road to Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Stop at Huka Falls skirting massive pine forests to reach Rotorua, the centre of Maori culture in New Zealand. (B)

h Ibis Rotorua, 2 nights

Day 12 RotoruaBegin with a visit to Te Puia thermal village, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve, with boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. You have free time for the rest of the day to take advantage of the many optional activities available to you. This evening, enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal), followed by a concert featuring Maori songs and the stirring haka. (B, D)

Day 13 Rotorua/Matamata/HamiltonCross the Mamaku Ranges to the Waikato region, noted for dairy farming and world famous horse studs. At Matamata, a guide will escort your group on a Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour where you can explore ‘Middle-earth’ and see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire. Take a drive through a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Range whilst learning about and seeing how the Hobbiton Set was created. Travel north to reach Hamilton where you have the afternoon to explore. Tonight, enjoy a tour and dinner at the Good George Brewery. (B, D)

h Sudima Hamilton, 1 night

Day 14 Hamilton/Bay of IslandsDeparting Hamilton, you travel alongside the Waikato River before crossing the Bombay Hills to reach Auckland. Travel north to Paihia, where you meet your local Maori guide who will provide a comprehensive insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. Here you will visit the Waitangi Treaty House, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed on 6 February, 1840. Enjoy a self guided tour through the famous Treaty House and grounds, the Maori Meeting House and giant war canoe, all set in spectacular grounds overlooking the bay. (B)


Day 15 Bay of IslandsToday you will have a full day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available, your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. Why

not try a full day tour to Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach. Cape Reinga is the northern most point of New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. Ninety Mile Beach is an exhilarating and incredible beach that includes a combination of sand dunes, giant Kauri trees, quicksand streams and spectacular scenery. Alternatively, you might choose to explore historic Russell, New Zealand’s first settlement and visit its original Church, Mission House and Museum. (B)

Day 16 Bay of Islands/AucklandBoard your coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth to Auckland. Travel via Matakohe, home of The Kauri Museum. Learn about the Kauri tree and the fascinating story of the pioneering days through the use of Kauri timber and Kauri gum as well as viewing the collection of antique kauri furniture and restored machinery. Upon arrival into Auckland, take a brief city tour before you arrive at your accommodation followed by an afternoon at your leisure. You may like to visit Sky Tower, which stands at 328m high and is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere. (B)

h Scenic Hotel Auckland, 1 night

Day 17 Auckland/HomeToday is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Auckland Airport to join your flight home. (B)

Highlights Tours

Bay of Islands

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Fox Glacier Christchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Lake Taupo

1

2

1

2

Omarama

1Te Anau

1

1

Picton

St Arnaud

1

1

Hamilton

1

21

“Be sure to activate global roaming on your mobile phone before you depart, or purchase a pre-paid SIM card on arrival, so you can easily keep in contact with family & friends back home.”

Tristan

Kirra Staff Tips

“Russell in the Bay of Islands is a very charming little town and well worth a visit for the idyllic island scenery and fascinating history.”

Poppy


From





FRI 15 JAN 2016 SUN 31 JAN 2016

FRI 12 FEB 2016 SUN 28 FEB 2016

FRI 18 MAR 2016 SUN 03 APR 2016



Tour Code: LB

What was your Highlight?We love hearing about all the fun our passengers have on the road and we’d love for you to share your experience with us. Search for ‘Kirra Tours’ on Facebook and upload your pics to our page. Or leave a comment telling us about your ‘Highlights’!

Auckland

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

Brief stop

1

Earlybird discount*


54

Day 1 Arrive ChristchurchA representative of Kirra Tours will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel.

h Quality Hotel Elms, 1 night

Day 2 Christchurch/Mt Cook/OmaramaEnjoy a city sights tour and then travel across the Canterbury Plains into MacKenzie Country. View the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial at Lake Tekapo before continuing on to Mt Cook National Park and then Omarama. (B)

h Country Time Hotel, 1 night

Day 3 Omarama/DunedinTravel down the Waitaki Valley to Oamaru and Dunedin. Enjoy the many optional activities available, your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. (B)


Day 4 Dunedin/Te AnauThis morning, travel along the peninsula before visiting Larnach Castle for a tour. Departing Dunedin, you will cross rich farmlands en route to Gore and Lumsden before arriving at Lake Te Anau. (B)

h Kingsgate Te Anau, 1 night

Day 5 Te Anau/Milford Sound/QueenstownPass through the Homer Tunnel before descending into Milford Sound for a cruise on the pristine sound. Returning to your coach, you set off for Queenstown. Enjoy dinner at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant with breathtaking views of Queenstown. (B, D)

h Tanoa Aspen Hotel, 2 nights

Day 6 QueenstownToday is a chance to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available. (B)

Day 7 Queenstown/WanakaToday you depart Queenstown, making a stop in Arrowtown, before arriving at Lake Wanaka, a picture postcard resort with a spectacular mountain backdrop. This afternoon is at your leisure. (B)

h Wanaka Hotel, 1 night

Day 8 Wanaka/Fox GlacierDeparting Wanaka, drive north along the coast to the glacier region. Upon arrival into Fox Glacier you may choose to take an optional scenic helicopter flight or take a walk to the face of the glacier. (B)

h Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, 1 night

Day 9 Fox Glacier/St ArnaudToday travel along the West Coast before heading inland through the Buller Gorge. On arrival into St Arnaud enjoy a guided tour of the region. (B, D)

h Alpine Lodge, 1 night

Day 10 St Arnaud/Picton/WellingtonDrive to Picton to board the Interislander Ferry. Sail through Queen Charlotte Sound and into Wellington Harbour. Enjoy a city tour with free time this afternoon. (B)


Day 11 Wellington/HomeYou will be transferred to Wellington Airport to join your flight home. (B)


Kirra Tours | 11 Day Southern Highlights

11 Day 8 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL



•Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

•Christchurch & Wellington Tours• Entry to Larnach Castle• Skyline Gondola & Dinner,

Queenstown• Interislander Ferry Crossing

7HIGHLIGHTS


• View Moeraki Boulders• Visit Lake Wakatipu• Visit the historic gold-mining town

of Arrowtown• Fox Glacier • Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks• Te Papa Museum

£1,240*

Ult imate Tours

Your Tour ItineraryHighlights Tours

1

2

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

SUPPLEMENTS



Christchurch £50

Wellington £42

*Based on twin share, per person room only, tour accommodation (Quality Hotel Elms Christchurch & Bay Plaza Wellington).




FRI 15 JAN 2016 MON 25 JAN 2016

FRI 12 FEB 2016 MON 22 FEB 2016

FRI 18 MAR 2016 MON 28 MAR 2016




SouthernHighlights

From


Wellington

Fox Glacier Christchurch

Milford Sound

Dunedin

Mt Cook

Queenstown

Wanaka

Omarama

Te Anau

St Arnaud Picton

Tour Code: LBS

Interislander Ferry


Overnights2

Brief stop

Earlybird discount*


55

Day 1 Arrive WellingtonWelcome to New Zealand. A Kirra Tours representative will greet you at the airport with transport waiting to take you to your hotel.


Day 2 Wellington/Taupo/RotoruaThis morning you will join your fellow travelers and meet your Coach Captain before departing. Drive to Paekakariki with views of Kapiti Island and on a clear day, the South Island. Cross rolling farmland to the central North Island National Park, dominated by the volcanic Mt Ruapehu. Follow the Desert Road to Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. Stop at Huka Falls, before continuing on your journey to reach Rotorua. Tonight’s dinner is at your leisure. (B)

h Ibis Rotorua, 2 nights

Day 3 RotoruaBegin with a visit to Te Puia, the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and Thermal Reserve, with boiling mud, silica terraces and Pohutu Geyser. You have free time for the rest of the day to take advantage of the many optional activities available to you. This evening enjoy a Maori Hangi (meal), followed by a concert featuring Maori songs and the stirring haka. (B, D)

Day 4 Rotorua/HamiltonCross the Mamaku Ranges to the Waikato region, noted for dairy farming and world famous horse studs. At Matamata, a guide will escort your group on a Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tour. Take a drive through a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Range whilst learning about and seeing how the Hobbiton Set was created. Travel north to reach Hamilton where you have the afternoon to explore. Tonight, enjoy a tour and dinner at the Good George Brewery. (B, D)

h Sudima Hamilton, 1 night

Day 5 Hamilton/Bay of IslandsDeparting Hamilton, you travel alongside the Waikato River before crossing the Bombay Hills to reach Auckland. Travel north to Paihia, where you meet your local Maori guide who will provide a comprehensive insight and history of the Bay of Islands before a visit to New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi. Enjoy a self-guided tour through the famous Treaty House and grounds, where the Treaty of New Zealand was signed, the Maori Meeting House and giant war canoe, all set in spectacular grounds overlooking the bay. (B)


Day 6 Bay of IslandsA day free for you to relax and enjoy the many optional activities available, your Coach Captain will happily assist with details. (B)

Day 7 Bay of Islands/AucklandBoard your coach for the journey south through Whangarei and Warkworth to Auckland. Travel via Matakohe, home of the Kauri Museum. Learn about the Kauri tree and the history of the regions early settlement. Upon arrival into Auckland, embark on a brief city tour before you arrive at your accommodation followed by an afternoon at your leisure. (B)

h Scenic Hotel Auckland, 1 night

Day 8 Auckland/HomeIt is time to farewell your travelling companions. You will be transferred to Auckland Airport to join your flight home. (B)


8 Day

TOUR GROUP SIZE


hACCOMMODATION


\DINING


bTRAVEL



•Authentic Maori Village Hangi & Concert

•Hobbiton Movie Set & Farm Tour

ICONIC SIGHTSEEING

• Te Puia Thermal Reserve•Good George Brewery Tour

& Dinner, Hamilton• Entry to Waitangi Treaty Grounds• Entry to Kauri Museum•Auckland Tour

7HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Huka Falls & Lake Taupo• Free time in Rotorua• Tongariro National Park• Explore Hamilton•Day at leisure in Paihia

£1,240* £1,105*Your Tour Itinerary

Kirra Tours | 8 Day Northern Highlights

2

1

1

21

SUPPLEMENTS



Wellington £42

Auckland £64

*Based on twin share, per person room only, touraccommodation (Bay Plaza Wellington & Scenic Hotel Auckland).


NorthernHighlights

From


Bay of Islands

Auckland

Rotorua

Wellington

Lake Taupo

Hamilton




SUN 24 JAN 2016 SUN 31 JAN 2016

SUN 21 FEB 2016 SUN 28 FEB 2016

SUN 27 MAR 2016 SUN 03 APR 2016



Tour Code: LBN

Brief stop


2 Overnights

Earlybird discount*


Highlights Tours

56

There’s so much to see and do in New Zealand As well as providing a wide range of included sightseeing on your coach tour, we have also highlighted the following optional activities that you may choose to enjoy in your free time. In many locations on your tour you have the opportunity to experience one or more of these fantastic activities. For your convenience, any optional sightseeing you choose to include will be organised by your Coach Captain as you travel. This allows you to customise your holiday and make it truly unforgettable.

DISCOVER CAPE REINGA, BAY OF ISLANDS This full day tour includes a drive along the sands of Ninety Mile Beach, careful negotiation of Te Paki stream beneath giant sand dunes, the lighthouse at Cape Reinga and lots of stops for sightseeing & photos.

SALT AIR FLY/DRIVE, PAIHIA Enjoy an amazing 45 minute flight to Cape Reinga via Northland’s spectacular harbours and beaches. Your destination is Ninety Mile Beach where you’ll enjoy a 2.5 hour tour around the top of New Zealand.

DISCOVER HOKIANGA, NORTHLAND Learn the history of Kauri logging in the horse & cart era. From a Maori guide, gain an understanding of their myths and legends. Visit Tane Mahuta, New Zealand’s largest Kauri tree.

VOLCANIC AIR, ROTORUA Experience the thermal wonderland of Rotorua by air, take either a floatplane or helicopter, and fly over five of the North Islands major crater lakes including Blue and Green lakes. An amazing experience not to be missed.

WHITE WATER RAFTING, TURANGI Want thrills? Ride the exciting rapids, travel on pristine, clear water through native flora and volcanic cliffs and encounter spectacular wildlife. A professional and experienced guide will be with you for the whole journey.

SKYLINE GONDOLA, ROTORUA Take the gondola to the top of Mt Ngongotaha and enjoy the views of Rotorua city, lake and surrounds. Then test your skills on the famous three wheeled Skyride luge.

CITY TOUR, WELLINGTONEnjoy three and a half hours of sightseeing around Wellington with Rover Tours. This extensive tour includes all the iconic landmarks, including Basin Reserve, National War Memorial, Cuba Street, Wellington Cable Car and much more.

POLYNESIAN SPAS,ROTORUAImmerse yourself in these unique thermal pools, with a choice of seven cascading hot pools ranging from 32-42 degrees you are sure to relax and unwind. Looking out over Lake Rotorua you can read a book or just watch the sun go down.

ZEALANDIA, WELLINGTON ZEALANDIA plays host to some of the rarest wildlife. Interact with this exhibition showcasing the history of the region, the effects of mankind on the wildlife and what work is being done towards conservation.

LORD OF THE RINGS TOUR, WELLINGTONThis half-day tour brings you to the best filming locations in Wellington along with knowledgeable specialist guides. The first part of the tour explores city locations and Mt Victoria; the second part takes in ‘Wellywood’ and Weta Cave.

North Island

OptionsOn Tour

Activities

Kirra Tours | On Tour Optional Activities

57

AIR SAFARIS, LAKE TEKAPOA once in a lifetime flight covering 200km of breathtaking scenery. Cross the Southern Alps, the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, pass close by Mt Cook and the Caroline Face then over the Tasman Glacier before returning to Lake Tekapo.

GLACIER HELICOPTERS FRANZ JOSEFFly into the glacial valley and follow the scenic line of the ice fall to the vast Nevis-snowfields at 6,000ft in the heart of the Southern Alps. A snow landing will have you in awe.

SKIPPERS CANYON JETBOAT, QUEENSTOWNThis unique trip is the best way to see it all. Journey slowly down the historic and stunning Skippers Canyon Road then weave your way at speed through the Southern Alps to the Shotover River for sheer thrills and spectacular scenery.

APPELLATION CENTRAL WINE TOURS, QUEENSTOWN Learn why the region is rapidly building an international reputation for its premium wines, pinots, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc varieties. Choose from a half day or full day tour, taking in 4-5 wineries.

MILLION DOLLAR CRUISE, QUEENSTOWNCruise for an hour and a half on Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu and enjoy friendly Kiwi service and hospitality. See wild trout, rare birds, massive mountains and stunningly transparent water on your way to the end of the lake.

SHOTOVER JET, QUEENSTOWNThe world’s most exciting jet boat ride, the Shotover Jet is New Zealand’s most popular and instantly identified visitor activity. Be thrilled as you skim past rocky outcrops at close range and be subjected to the famous 360 degree spin.

GLACIER VALLEY WALK, FRANZ JOSEFWalk alongside the mighty Waiho River bed following the glaciers path of retreat in this remarkable landscape. Learn of the glacier’s history, see what is left behind by this majestic giant, hear legends and be amazed by the views.

SKYLINE GONDOLA & LUGE, QUEENSTOWNTravel by Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, high above the township and lake where the views are nothing short of spectacular. While you’re there choose to enjoy a meal in the restaurant or take a ride on the Luge track, fun for all ages.

CADBURY WORLD, DUNEDINCadbury World in Dunedin is a colourful, educational chocolate experience and fun for everyone. Enjoy the visitor centre, a fun guided tour through areas of the factory, chocolate samples, the unique silo chocolate fall and the retail outlet.

SPEIGHT’S BREWERY TOUR, DUNEDINThe tour takes you through a working brewery, its sights and smells, outlining the history of brewing, interactive displays giving an understanding of the processes and what goes into a world class beer, finishing with a tasting.

TAIERI GORGE RAILWAY, DUNEDIN A four hour journey through the rugged Taieri River Gorge, steeped in history of the original settlers and gold miners who followed this route to inland goldfields. Enjoy restored heritage carriages and spectacular scenery.

Ask your Coach Captain to view the onboard Optional Activities Flipbook for a closer look at what’s on offer!

You can peruse a North & South Island flipbook that contains descriptions of each optional activity, departure details and prices. Once you know what you’d like to do, book through your Coach Captain. Easy!

South Island

Kirra Tours | On Tour Optional Activities

Shotover Jet, Queenstown

58

Cruise connections

About

Cruise ship dwarfed by Milford‘s rock faces

59

Enhance your cruise by connecting with a Coach TourIt’s the best of both worlds when you combine your cruise with a Kirra Coach Tour, and we have made it even easier for you to do so. We have identified the popular cruises reaching our shores this season and the Coach Tours that they link up with. At Kirra, we have over 20 Coach Touring options and four styles of touring on offer. So finding a combination that works for you is simple. We have conveniently matched our popular Coach Tours to Auckland cruise arrivals & departures. If you know your cruise departure, then it’s simply a matter of perusing the tours in this brochure and looking for the link icon or go online to see what options are available to you. Speak to a Kirra consultant for more information and a complete list of suitable cruise connections.

Kirra Tours | Cruise Connections

AboutCruise

Connections

Cruise the Bay Savouring the Auckland sunset

See more than just the coastAt Kirra, we know there is so much more to New Zealand than just stunning coastline. It’s a compact country, full of so many varied sights, landscapes and experiences. Make the most your time - disembark and explore what New Zealand truly has to offer on one of our Coach Tours that take in all the ‘must see’ iconic sights.

Flexibility to make the most of your holiday We know we have Coach Touring covered, but by offering cruise connections, you have the freedom to choose your cruise, and even your cabin style on board each ship. We offer a broad range of itineraries, but ultimately you choose the type of cruise you want so you’re not locked into a cruise and coach combination that doesn’t suit. You also have the luxury of selecting a cruise before of after your Coach Tour, depending on your holiday schedule.

Transfers from port to hotelAvoid the stress of trying find your way from the port to your accommodation or vice versa, as we offer convenient transfers to ensure you’re taken care of from the start to finish of your tour.

Truly a trip of a lifetimeNew Zealand really is a one of kind destination. From its pristine sandy beaches, majestic mountain ranges, and unique geothermal wonderlands, incredible volcanic landscapes, untouched rainforest, and isolated glaciers and all of the memorable experiences in between, you won’t want to miss any of it. So why not make it a trip of a lifetime and complement your cruise experience with one of our connecting Coach Tours.

Example of how a connection worksCelebrity Solstice 13 Day New Zealand Cruise|> departs Sydney 02 NOV 2015 |> arrives Auckland 16 NOV 2015

Kirra’s 18 Day Classic New Zealand Panorama Coach Tour (page 38) |> departs Auckland 17 NOV 2015 |> arrives Christchurch 04 DEC 2015

Don’t miss out on discovering...

ROTORUAThe cultural and geothermal heartland of New Zealand has so many iconic and informative attractions, including Tamaki Maori Village & Hangi, Skyline Gondola, Te Puia Maori Arts & Crafts Institute, Agrodome and more. For Lord of the Rings fans, the Hobbiton Movie Set is just a short journey west.

MT COOKApart from the awe-inspiring sight of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt Cook is home to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, a tribute to New Zealand’s great explorer. You can also take a flight of a lifetime over the snow-capped mountains and icefields taking in the spectacular scenery.

TONGARIROThe World Heritage listed Tongariro National Park features some of the most contrasting and surreal landscapes you’ll ever see. Emerald lakes, alpine meadows, desert craters and hot springs surround the largest volcanoes in the North Island. Views of Mt Ruapehu will take your breath away.

QUEENSTOWNAlthough known as the adventure capital, this thrillseeker’s playground has a diverse range of activities on offer including the Walter Peak Cruise, Skyline Gondola & Dinner, Shotover Jetboat Ride, TSS Earnslaw Cruise and an array of world-class dining, galleries and shopping.

GLACIERSThe West Coast is as dramatic as it is beautiful. In fact, the Great Coast Road was recently voted one of the world’s top 10 coastal drives by Lonely Planet. Whether you choose to venture on to the ice of the twin glaciers Fox & Franz Josef or soar above on a scenic flight, time spent here is truly unforgettable.

Get ConnectedFor more information and advice regarding all the available connections, please ask your Kirra consultant or visit www.kirratours.co.nz/cruise

60

Tailor-made tours

Maori rock carvings, Lake Taupo

About

61

Groups & Special Interest HolidaysDepending on where your group’s interest lies, Kirra can tailor the perfect itinerary to suit you, ensuring you get the most out of your time in New Zealand. Whether it be for two or 200 people, Kirra can help make your journey a memorable and enriching experience. We offer a range of services to those wishing to travel to New Zealand within a group. Our expert planning and coordination team can tailor a New Zealand holiday to your groups needs and with on the ground staff, we can ensure that your group is well looked after from start to finish. Our experienced and knowledgeable team are able to plan and provide advice on a range of experiences, accommodation, transport and activities.

Our Planning & AssistanceOur specialist group consultants have travelled extensively and have over 20 years of combined experience in New Zealand travel. They can provide expert guidance to assist you in creating the perfect customised itinerary in accordance with your requirements.

Past ExperienceOur consultants are experts in helping you achieve your goals when it comes to travelling New Zealand, no matter how unusual or extraordinary. From private photoshoots of traditionally dressed Maori Warriors, right to an exclusive jetboat arrival and lakeside hotel check-in with canapés and champagne, if you want to experience something different then we have you covered.

AffordabilityWhen requesting assistance with your proposed group travel, it is very important to advise our consultants of your budget, your preferences and interests and any specific inclusions you would like to incorporate into your itinerary so that we can tailor your experience to a price that suits you.

TransportKirra has access to a wide range of luxury cars, mini-vans and larger touring coaches from 22 to 48 seats all with personal driver/guides to escort and assist you throughout your tour.

Coach Captain/Tour GuideIf you choose to travel with a personal driver, your Coach Captain will also act as a Tour Guide, helping with all your general travel arrangements such as accommodation check-in or sightseeing, giving you tips and suggestions for your free time and providing insightful commentary whilst on the road. Our friendly and experienced Coach Captains will make certain that you are taken care of at all times, to ensure a stress free and memorable trip.

Other LanguagesOur Coach Captains provide a special insight into New Zealand, however for clients who require commentary in a language other than English we can organise professional guides to accompany your Tailor-made Tour, fluent in foreign languages including but not limited to German, French, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Russian and Danish to name but a few.

TranzAlpine Train JourneyWaiheke Island Wine Tasting

AboutTailor-made

Tours

Kirra, The New Zealand Specialists, have been creating memorable holiday experiences since 1968.

Kirra has access to an exceptional range of unique and diverse activities, transport and accommodation styles.

Kirra’s local drivers and guides are friendly, experienced and very knowledgeable.

Kirra can tailor tours to most dietary, accessibility and spiritual requirements.

No group is too big or too small.

GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSEA KIRRA TAILOR-MADE TOUR5

“Thank you for the fantastic coach drivers we had. Lee had a great sense of humour and was very personable & professional. Ross was hard working, loading the bus quickly and promptly and was flexible in meeting our needs. The service both drivers offered was exceptional, making our trip pleasurable & memorable!

Melissa, Australia


Kirra Tours | Tailor-made Tours

62

Tailor-MadeExperiences

Dining Lake WanakaQueenstown Golf Course

Delivering memorable group experiencesAt Kirra we know that one of the best things about travelling in a group is sharing your experiences with family, friends or colleagues. This is why it is so important to us that you return from your time in New Zealand fully satisfied and with long lasting memories of your visit. To ensure you get the most out of your experience, Kirra’s Tailor-made Tour Specialists can help you plan your journey and personalise your itinerary to incorporate iconic activities and destinations which best suit your group. Below we have listed just a few group options we can cater for, though we are always happy to work with you individually to help create the perfect experience for your next group holiday.

PRIVATE GUIDED COACH TOURSDiscover New Zealand in comfort and style as part of your own private group. Kirra can tailor an experience especially for you, right from itinerary suggestions and sightseeing inclusions, to specialty meals, private coach hire and endless accommodation options.

GOLF SAFARISNew Zealand is home to some of the top courses in the world, not to mention some of the most striking scenic vistas and views. A private Golf Holiday can take you to such iconic clubs as Kauri Cliffs, The Hills, Millbrook, Cape Kidnappers and many more.

SCHOOL & EDUCATIONAL TOURSWith a history as rich as New Zealand’s, there is much to discover for students looking for an educational experience. With trips tailored specifically to suit the school, Kirra will provide a safe learning environment and hosted tour from start to finish.

FARM TOURSAgriculture and livestock have been vital in the foundation of New Zealand and as a result the farming landscape is both rich and diverse. You may already have farm contacts yourself or Kirra can organise visits for you, creating an informative and fascinating farm experience.

HOBBY & THEMED GROUPSKirra can create specially focused tours that are tailored around a hobby or interest that your group or club would like to explore. With photographic tours, hiking experiences and cultural journeys as an example, Kirra can tailor the perfect experience for you.

GARDEN & FLOWER SHOWSGardens in New Zealand are rich and diverse, ranging from precious unique native flora to manicured private estates and local botanical gardens, all available for you to explore and discover. Annual garden shows can also be included within your itinerary.

SPORTING & SPECIAL EVENTS There are so many exciting events taking place in New Zealand every year. Here at Kirra we can organise a tour to coincide with the event of your choice or even offer assistance in creating a sporting tour for your team or club.

SOCIAL & FAMILY GROUPSKirra can provide a private touring experience for family groups of any size, as well as social clubs or groups of friends, either for simple recreation and fun or maybe even for a special occasion such as a birthday or family reunion.

FOOD & WINE ESCAPESNew Zealand is well known for its iconic and stunning wine regions which boast unique boutique wineries and provide an intimate visiting experience with local fresh produce and accompanying tasting platters. A food or wine escape is the ultimate indulgence!

CONVENTIONS & CORPORATE INCENTIVESNew Zealand is the perfect place to hold your next conference, with spectacular meeting rooms and function centres, as well as an endless array of exciting and unique experiences which will provide a trip to remember.

Unique

Kirra Tours | Tailor-made Tours

63

*UNITED KINGDOM

1. Summary

1.1 These terms and conditions constitute a summary only of the full Kirra terms and conditions applicable to your booking (the Terms). The Terms are available for you to view under the section headed Terms & Conditions at: www.kirratours.co.uk

1.2 You acknowledge and warrant to Kirra that you have accessed, read and accept the Terms by making a booking with Kirra.

2. Contracting Party

2.1 Any reference to Kirra in these key terms and conditions means New Zealand Travel Specialists Limited.

3. Price and Currency

3.1 All prices quoted in this brochure are in Great British Pounds.

3.2 VAT is included in all prices quoted in Kirra brochures, unless specified otherwise.

3.3 Pricing is subject to currency exchange fluctuations, Kirra reserves the right to amend without notice any prices in this brochure.

3.4 Pricing will be guaranteed only after Kirra has received total payment.

3.5 Current valid prices will be advised on request and confirmation by way of invoice to your travel agent when your booking is made.

4. Deposit

4.1 Except as otherwise specified in the Terms, a deposit of £200 per person is required within 7 days of booking confirmation from Kirra and the issue of our confirmation invoice will be confirmation of your contract with Kirra and acceptance of these Terms.

4.2 An additional £200 per person is required when booking the Hollyford Track option.

5. Final payment

5.1 Except as otherwise specified in the Terms, the balance of the Price of your booking shall become due and payable not less than 65 days prior to your departure date.

6. Payments to travel agents

6.1 Payments made to your travel agent will not be taken as payment to Kirra until such time as Kirra receives such payments (in full) from your travel agent.

7. Inclusions and exclusions

7.1 Without limitation, unless specified otherwise by Kirra in writing, the Price of your booking shall not cover airport arrival/departure taxes or any other airline fees or charges, travel agent fees and charges, charges for excess luggage, personal services, gratuities, laundry, drinks, meals, pre-travel documentation, personal accident and medical expenses and incidental expenses including all communication charges, all of which are your sole responsibility.

8. Surcharges

8.1 Any Price quoted by Kirra may be subject to surcharges.

9. Special Requests

9.1 All special request & meal requirements must be advised to Kirra in writing 14 days prior to departure.

(a) Special room and dietary requests will be passed on to the hotels but cannot be guaranteed.

(b) Kirra has limitations on the number of wheelchair travellers it can cater for. Please contact for availability.

10. Additional fees

10.1 Late payment: Kirra may, at its sole discretion, charge an additional fee of £25 with respect to any late payment of any monies payable by you to Kirra.

10.2 Late booking: Kirra may, at its sole discretion, charge an additional fee of £25 on any booking made within 15 days of your travel departure date.

11. Specialist tours and special events

11.1 Additional terms and conditions will apply to treks, bicycle tours and more specialised products (as specified in the Terms).

11.2 Where bookings relate to a period in which special events are due to take place in New Zealand, bookings may be subject to additional or varied terms and conditions, as advised by Kirra from time to time.

12. Earlybird offer

12.1 Discount of 7.5% off your tour price is valid only for new bookings paid in full by 30 June 2015. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers. Standard cancellation terms apply as per section 14.

13. Variations and cancellation by Kirra

13.1 Kirra reserves the right to vary or cancel any tour or other travel arrangement at any time up to and following your travel departure date. You will be notified promptly of any such variation or cancellation. If cancellation is made prior to the departure of the tour, the responsibility of Kirra is to only refund to the passenger the amount received for the reservation. Where possible, Kirra will endeavour to re-book the tour for an alternative departure date or a similar tour. Kirra will not be held responsible for airfares purchased online or through a Travel Agent.

14. Cancellation by you

14.1 Except as otherwise specified in these Terms, in the event of cancellation of a booking by you, the following cancellation fees shall apply.

(a) After bookings have been confirmed by Kirra and up to 65 days prior to your travel departure date, a cancellation fee of £200 per person will apply, plus an additional £200 per person if the Hollyford Track option was selected;

(b) Between 64 and 21 days prior to your travel departure date, 20% of the total Price will apply;

(c) Between 20 and 11 days of your travel departure date, 50% of the total Price will apply; and

(d) Within 10 days of your travel departure date, 100% of the total Price will apply.

15. Delays to travel

15.1 Kirra does not incur any liability for airfares purchased by travel agents or clients online via the internet.

15.2 In the unlikely event that a tour is cancelled, Kirra will not be held responsible for fees applicable to reissuing or changing flights.

16. Cruise Connections

16.1 Kirra has identified tours that linked to scheduled cruises, we reserve the right that at the time of publishing this information was correct. This information is subject to change and correction.

17. Passport and Visa requirements

17.1 You are solely responsible for all passport and/or visa requirements for travel to and from New Zealand (if applicable).

18. Health requirements

18.1 Payment of your deposit to Kirra (directly or through your travel agent) shall constitute a warranty by you that you (and any other persons covered by your booking) are sufficiently fit and healthy to undertake the relevant tour or other travel arrangements.

19. Minors

19.1 Passengers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times during any tour.

20. Safety

20.1 You must follow all Kirra Tour crew instructions at all times to ensure tour safety.

21. Holiday duration

21.1 The first and last day of your holiday itinerary are travelling days and therefore depending on flight arrival/departure times, may not necessarily be a whole days.

22. Refunds

22.1 Please note that no refund shall be made for any unused portion of any itinerary. Any alteration to the holiday, made by traveller(s), shall be wholly at the expense of that traveller(s).

22.2 Product and service providers are unable to authorise any refund on Kirra's behalf.

23. Travel insurance

23.1 Kirra highly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance is purchased at the time of booking. Cancellation fees charged by Kirra will not be waived under any circumstances where travel insurance may have covered you.

24. Liability

24.1 Responsibility: You acknowledge and agree that Kirra accepts no responsibility and will not be liable to you or any third party for any loss, cost or damage (including loss of enjoyment) suffered directly or indirectly in connection with:

(a) any risks or other aspects of any tour or other travel arrangement notified to you by or on behalf of Kirra (in these Terms or otherwise);

(b) any change to your itinerary or delays in departure or arrival times of aircraft or otherwise during the conduct of any tour or other travel arrangement;

(c) any loss or damage to your baggage;

(d) any personal injury or death resulting from the acts or omissions or negligence of any third parties providing goods or services to you during your tour or other travel arrangements including, without limitation, air carriers, hotels, restaurateurs, transportation providers and/or medical personnel; or

(e) any loss of enjoyment by you due to circumstances outlined in these Terms or otherwise beyond Kirra control.

(f) Passengers will not be permitted to embark or continue on tour while their mental or physical condition is, in the opinion of any representative of Kirra, such as to render them incapable of caring for themselves, or whereby they become objectionable to other passengers, or they become a hazard to themselves or other passengers.

24.2 Total liability: Notwithstanding any other provision of these Terms, and to the maximum extent permitted by law, Kirra maximum liability to you or any third party (including any claims of negligence on the part of Kirra) is limited to the amounts actually paid by you with respect to your booking (excluding insurance premiums, Variation Fees and Additional fees (as applicable)).

24.3 Consequential loss: Kirra will not be liable for any loss of enjoyment, opportunity, profit, savings, revenue or interest or any other consequential or indirect, incidental, special or punitive loss, damage or expenses even if Kirra has been advised of their possible existence and even if such loss, damage or expense is caused by Kirra negligence.

24.4 Indemnity: You agree to indemnify Kirra for any loss or damage suffered by Kirra as a result of, or in connection with, any breach of these Terms or any negligence or wilful default, by you (or any other person covered by your booking).

24.5 Force Majeure: Kirra shall not be liable for any delay or for any failure to fulfil its obligations under these Terms (or any service obligations to you) if the failure or delay arises directly or indirectly from or as a consequence of any Force Majeure Event (as defined in the Terms).

25. Accident Compensation Scheme

25.1 You acknowledge that New Zealand has a no fault law and claims are handled by the Accident Compensation Commission (“ACC”) pursuant to governing legislation, including the Accident Compensation Act 2001. Because of the wide range of help available from ACC after an injury, you can’t sue for personal injury in New Zealand, except for exemplary damages.

26. General

26.1 The Terms may be subject to amendment by Kirra from time to time.

26.2 Additional terms and conditions (over and above those specified in the Terms) may

apply to your booking and will be advised by your Kirra representative at the time of booking (or variation thereof).

26.3 The Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand and the parties submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand courts.

26.4 This summary together with the Terms constitute the entire agreement between the parties about its subject matter and any previous agreements, understandings and negotiations on that subject matter have no effect.

27. Definitions

Additional Fees means the fees specified in clause 10.

Other travel arrangements means any travel plans (not defined as a “tour”) in respect of which Kirra have provided services (for example, any independent holiday or vehicle hire).

Price means the price quoted by Kirra for any tour or other travel arrangement (or amendment thereof) in the relevant booking confirmation (or amendment thereof).

Terms means the full Kirra terms and conditions applicable to your booking, which are available to view at www.kirratours.co.uk and, for the avoidance of doubt, includes any additional terms and conditions relating to your booking as advised by your booking agent at the time of booking.

Tour means any coach or other special tour organised by Kirra.

Travel departure date means, in respect of any tour or other travel arrangement, the first date in which pre-booked arrangements made by Kirra commence.

28. Illustrations

All photographs in this brochure illustrate genuine events and places. Their use or particular positioning in this brochure should not be interpreted as confirmation that those events and places will necessarily be seen. Images in this brochure have been provided by Intercity Group, Real Journeys, Interislander, Volcanic Hills Winery, Waitangi National Trust, Speight’s Ale House Dunedin, Northburn Station, Skyline Queenstown, Hobbiton Movie Set, Soljans Estate Winery & Café, Larnach Castle, Richard Sidley, Robert Suisted, Tourism New Zealand, Tourism Auckland, Destination Coromandel, Destination Rotorua, Positively Wellington, Destination Marlborough, Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism, Tourism West Coast, Mount Cook Mackenzie Tourism, Tourism Dunedin, Destination Queenstown, Lake Wanaka Tourism, Destination Fiordland, iStock Photo and Kirra staff members.

Front Cover image: Milky Way above Mt Cook, courtesy of iStock Photography.

Back Cover image: Lupins at Lake Tekapo, courtesy of iStock Photography.

29. Validity

Tours and prices stipulated in this brochure are valid from 01 October 2015 until 30 September 2016, subject to variation in accordance with these conditions. This brochure was released December 2014.

Kirra Tours is a trading name of New Zealand Travel Specialists Limited. Company Registration No. 3536152. Registered Office: Suite 4, St Piran House, Heron Way, Newham, Truro TR1 2XN.

Kirra Tours is a full member of ITOC, the Inbound Tour Operators Council of New Zealand, and ABTA, the UK’s largest travel association, representing travel agents and tour operators. ABTA Licence No. W822X

©2014 Kirra Tours Limited Partnership No part of this brochure may be reproduced without Kirra's prior written permission.

Terms & Conditions

Kirra Tours | Terms & Conditions

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To book your Kirra coach tour contact your local travel agent:

Suite 4, St Piran House,Heron Way, Newham,Truro TR1 2XNFree Phone 0800 856 5494Phone +44 1 872 266 897Fax +44 1 872 266 890Email [email protected] www.kirratours.co.uk

Documents

2015/16 Kirra Tours New Zealand Coach Tour Holidays Brochure (UK)